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Saturday April 24th 2004

The harder we here at Zenwaiter.com work to keep our American and Ontario sledders up to date on the news of riding in Quebec, the more we get attacked. Is there no end to the oposition we face?

You may have noticed that our nice bulletin boards are gone. It has been three days now, and we can't figure out what happened to them. Now I strongly suspect that we have once again been hacked. It's probably the Bad Man of St-Zenon who has once again paid someone to hack our web site. That is twice in one month! (If it is him, he has kept his promise to hack the site whenever he feels like it. I only hope it is costing him a fortune.)

Oh well, we will just continue struggling. We will reinstall the bulletin boards which allow you the readers to say whatever is on your heart to say. This has been a tough time. I just replaced the hard drive on the main computer as it burned out last week, and now this.

Between the hacking, and the viruses that attack us constantly, it has not been easy.

The Zen Shack is for rent for the summer in St-Zenon, only $ 2,000. usd for the entire summer, (includes all utilities). Rent it and enjoy the fishing and quad riding, you'll have a blast.

I will to return to Quebec in the fall to do my snowmobile shows, and in the winter to do my reporting and my job as usual, and we will continue to give our visiting tourists the good heads up on all the info he should know.

Have a good day. Here in Penticton it was 20C today and bright. People are on the beaches, and others are still riding sleds in the mountains!

Great prices on barely used quads HERE

Need a room this summer? CLICK HERE

Tuesday April 13 2004

Zen's New Blog

This page has basicly been a web log, or "blog" for years, but it requires a lot of time. I am going to try something easier for the summer. A blog can be accessed from any computer, anywhere, so, it is easuier for me this summer, seeing as how my Maxtor hard drive just expired and left me helpless. It is being repaired and is expensive.

Visit my Zen Blog for the latest news.

Click here for my new blog.

Penticton serves a population base of about 40,000 people, a far cry from St-Zenon's 1500. Here there is everything. All the big box stores on the outskirts, and all the quaint ma and pa shops in the downtown core. There are several lakes in and around the city. Kelowna, half an hour to the north, is the boom town generating all the high real-estate prices. I prefer it here.

I have been busy setting up my Internet connections and my e-mail. At the same time, I have set up a little apartment in the heart of downtown. I love it.

I want too explore the snowmobile industry and the quads too. Both appear top be important in this area. I am also hoping to pick up a few new Internet clients.

It is +26 C here tonight, and I have my air conditioner on already! Hope you are all well back east. How about some e-mail... I am a little lonely, as I haven't had the time to make friends here. zw.

Check out BC HERE

Sat March 28 2004
As predicted, it is +8 C, and everything is melting steady. The ground is appearing out of the white, but my driveway still has three inches of ice! Spring is on her way.

I will be taking a few days off from the website to concentrate on earing some money. If you need web site services, please drop me a line. I need to start earning again. Playing catch up.

Thanks to everyone who made this job great all winter. Thanks to all those who donated cash and became sponsors. Please pray for me, and I will also remember you.

I hope some of you will consider a Canadian Holiday this summer.

I will be working for one week at Americade if you wanna comes see me, I will be in a big tent, selling leather jackets and chaps and other bike stuff, in Lake George NY. It lasts a week. I am not sure of the dates. I will be on the parking lot of THE LEATHER STORE. They also have a big TEE-PEE, and a big carved BEAR standing up.

Later!

Want to donate to our web site?

Simply make out your check to Zenwaiter and mail it to

Zenwaiter

5831 Chemin Brassard
St-Zenon Quebec Canada
J0K 3N0

Thursday Mar 25 2004
As expected, temps got mild today. Up to +5C. Tomorrow same. Sat sunny and a bit cooler. Spring is a commin!

Check out this cool web site (still under construction) Built by "Son of Zen 1". The guy has the cool! He should have it... he is my kid!! right?? hahahahha... He can build some incredible stuff, and he's still in college. Click below, and crank up the volume! Needless to say, I'm a very proud Dad! Makes my web site look like a sloppy second! (which it is!).

"Son of Zen 1"

Wed Mar 24, 2004
Sunny and -8C this morning. Weatherman calling for rain Friday with milder temps. Sat and Sun Sunshine with highs of +5. Many still coming up to try and get a final ride in. It will be an adventure! This is the time of year to carry extra fuel in case some of your favorite gas stops are closed. Why not buy a Tour Buddy?

The season is wrapping up and the Fat Lady is warming up to sing, but cold weather has hung on for the past few weeks.

Have you enjoyed Zenwaiter this winter? Do you feel sad that there won't be that much written here through the summer? Don't worry, I will try to keep interesting stuff on the web site for you to read.

If you enjoyed the site and have not donated yet, this would be an excellent time to do so.

HOW
TO DONATE

Simply make out your check to Zenwaiter and mail it to

Zenwaiter

5831 Chemin Brassard
St-Zenon Quebec Canada
J0K 3N0

or use Pay Pal.
or buy a cap... HERE

Monday Mar 22 2004
- 26 C this morning, and sunny. There was a wind storm all night that kept waking me up. As a result, we now have new snow drifts all over. Today should be fun on a sled out there, though they have stopped grooming. You may also meet surprises such as quads on snowmobile trails, but you won't see much out there.

Sunday March 21 2004

-5C, 4 inches of new snow, and still snowing. Amazing!

Riding Lake Taurau yesterday was like riding in Siberia... cold and very windy with poor visibility. Over 80 quads participated in the Quad Poker Run, including me. It was a ball, especially the wind up party, where I actually won 50 bucks, for having the worst poker hand! The best hand won a beautiful quad trailer with a custom paint job. More on this soon, I am processing the photos now. Photos shd be up by tomorrow.

"Pierre the hare", the Quad maniac in St-Michel with the big
vision for the future of the sport here, serves Zen a fresh coffee
on the morning of the big day! Starting as a cook here, in this
historic St-Michel Restaurant that doubles as a museum, Pierre
eventually purchased the joint, and maintained its' tradition of
quality food, but more than that, a good time and a warm welcome!
More pics coming soon!

Riders in the Bistro last night, told me they are doing 100 to 200 miles a day, and apart from the rare dirt spot, (where they ride on the edge of the trail), the trails to several locations are very good! Unreal.

More soon.

LAZY ZEN READERS

Are you one of my 'lazy readers'? You just want the info spoon fed to you on this zencomments page? Are you too lazy to read through the posts on the bulletin boards, and too lazy to actually contribute to that board? You say that you have tried reading the board, and you say there is not much on it in terms of good trail info?

Well guess what? If you got off your butt after a weekend of riding in Quebec, and spent ten minutes writing a report for others to enjoy, our boards would be really excellent. Share what you know.

Do you realize that we go through the effort and the expense of having two people read all your posts every day? They remove everything that is evil, you know, swearing, and those creeps that say nasty things that hurt. Our board is friendly and 'nice'. It's a nice place to go looking for info.

So let's review shall we?

99% of you do not contribute any money to this site, and you do not bother to study the board, and you never contribute to the intel on the board.

Some of you have been complaining of late, that our site doesn't give you enough info!

Hahaha. ... yes buddy boy, I am talking to you!

Some of you need to get off your butts, and click below to READ the various posts on my bulletin board! Then you need to become part of the solution. START WRITING on the board after each trip. You have no idea how powerful this is!

Next year, you may not be so spoiled, you actually may need to go onto the board instead of just taking what you can from this page for free. Also, next year I will probably change Zenwaiter to a "pay site", a thing I have threatened for years but have refused to do.

You expect me to get all this info for you for free. Grow up. Either start contributing money , or start contributing good reports, or at the very least, stop your complaining.

... lazy lazy lazy!

Bulletin Board Here.

Thursday March 18
Good evening. My friend Gerrard is a hiker and yesterday he walked with his wife and daughter, down the 63 near the Glaciere. He walked 16 kilometers and only saw one vehicle, a quad. The trail was excellent! "How come there are no snowmobiles" he said. Last night was - 10, tonight it is -10 again.

Today I enjoyed a drive to St-Felix with Richard Lane from Delaware to see friends. It was an unexpected pleasure. We enjoyed a breakfast and a visit with Pierre at the Moulin a Scie, (the saw mill restaurant), then wen for a drive in the bright sunshine.

I saw crazy Al this evening, and we both realized that we are exhausted fro the season. We are glad it is almost over. Al says a big thank you to all his clients at the Refuge.. 'Exack!' he said! "no problame!"

The fat lady has not started singing, but she is warming up her voice a little. Snow is still plentiful in the trails, but it is slowly disappearing. This weekend may be the last one. I hear the groomers are all done for the year. Trails are still surprisingly good.

Got a call tonight from Al Verkest in Ontario NY, he just bought a new Yamaha sled for next winter, it sounds real nice. Don't forget, if you want a 2004 Polaris with 1500 miles or so, call the boys at Polaris in St-Michel-des-Saints. 450-884-1355.

Wed March 17, 2004
Spoke with Richard Lane, he went 200 miles from St-Michel to the Repo yesterday, then Manawan and back to St-Michel. He said there was more snow up north for sure, but then added that he also rode to Koubeks, and he said it was pretty good as well.

Tuesday March 16 2004
-21C this morning and sunny. Remaining cold all week with snow Wed, Thursday, and Friday. Could be a bonus weekend of riding coming up for all of God's snowmobiling children!

I didn't connect with Bob yet, and no news from the Kanawata trip yet either, but I am sure they are getting the spring riding of a lifetime. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. The spring riders this year have been blessed, and still are.

This has been a wonderful year for riding in Lanaudiere. I invite you all to come back in the summer with your ATV quads. The same snowmobile trails that you know and love, become quad trails in the summer, for the most part, though you need to pick up a map to be sure. Pierre, owner of the Old Saw Mill Restaurant is in charge of the club.

He has invited me to participate in the Spring Quad Poker Run, which takes place this Saturday. There are only 100 tickets, and they are mostly sold already. I will have photos next Monday if I survive it.

My body has not been a good friend this winter, I spend too much time at this desk, and then whenever I ride, I am in pain for a week. It's not my body's fault, it is mine. I have to move more.

I hope you have enjoyed the web site over the winter. My writing will start to become weekly from here on in. Many of you will continue to read I know. But this year there will be some drastic changes, which I will tell you about soon.

In the spring summer and fall, our visitors drop off from an average of 3,000 pr day in January, to about 400 a day in August. I suspect we will get 6 or 700 a day this summer, because our winter hits have almost doubled.

Last year we had almost 5 million 'page views' over twelve months. This year I expect we will total about 9 million by Sept 15th. That is quite amazing I think.

Year end Review

I don't like to publish our total donation and sponsorship cash totals, but I can tell you that we did better this year in personal donations, and poorer in corporate sponsorships. This netted us an overall downturn over last year.

The number of visitors doubled. Page views doubled.

Cooperation with the Police, improved overall.

Number of Snowmobile Shows that I attended, three. Malone NY, Big E in Syracuse, New Hampshire Grass Drags.

No contact with the Federation of Snowmobile Clubs, I no longer try to communicate with them. A local motel owner has basically poisoned my name with them forever.

The number of personal threats to my house and my person doubled, and my home was vandalized one time. Some threats were made in person, and some on the answering machine. Because of threats and vandalism, I have put my house up for sale, and I am moving to a safer location. I feel this is wise. It is also expensive.

Still had absolutely no cooperation from the local snowmobile 'club' in terms of getting information on what was groomed and what was not, only continued belligerence.

No cooperation from thelocal Chamber of Commerce or the Regional tourism board, although I must admit, I no longer even try to contact them anymore. They have a totally different approach to tourism than I do, and they don't want to support my work in any way shape or form. They support, protect, and back their members; I work for my readers. I suspect they are not pleased that so many people read this site, as they do not control it's content.

Giving...

If you have not given anything to ZW this winter, and you have used our forum and our info for your entertainment and or, for usable info which made your holidays in Quebec just a little bit better than they otherwise have been, please give to the cause, or become a business sponsor. Few local businesses contribute, so it is up to people in America, Ontario, Montreal, and anywhere else that we have readers, to give.

We are coming into the roughest part of the year, money wise. I have to switch back to making web sites for people, (which I enjoy) but...I have no work lined up just yet. I have to start beating the bushes, but I am tired.

Use my web site services this summer?... Here

Info on how to give... Here...

Buy a hat?...Here

Go contribute your comments to our boards...

thanks... zw

Monday Morning SNOW and -3C
We have almost 2 inches of new snow and a temp of -3C this morning, sure looks like winter. For those who decided to come up and try their hand at spring riding, their will be great rewards today. Trails to Manawan and Repo are groomed and local trails have also been groomed in the past 4 days, though the dirt has shown it's ugly head on some hills over the past ten days on the busiest sections.

I will have a report tonight from Bob Matheison and his crew tonight. Alson this morning Pierre from the Saw Mill restaurant will ride up to Kanawata with Martin from the Hotel Central and a few other pals. They will stay the night and return Tuesday. They will no doubt have a great trip, as their is tons of snow north of St-Michel still, protected from the sun by the trees. Also remember that we had an excellent base this winter which helps the trails last longer as well.

If you have been up here of late be sure to give us a report on the bulletin boards to help others who want to come up.

Bulletin B Here

Sunday AM...
-20C, winter is back. Have a bunch of friends up riding this weekend and also this week. Will be a great week of spring riding. Still grooming from what I hear. Trails to Lake Repos and Manawan bumpy at places but mostly 8/10, and further north 10/10 like at Kanawata. Typical for this time of year. My foundation was making big cracking noises this morning as temps plunged again.

Weather man calling for snow today and Monday, and Wednesday too. Here we go! We didn't get much snow in Feb., so this will make things interesting.

Latest rumour around town says that I have been going from table to table, begging.. no demanding... donations from all the patrons in the local restaurants! Sounds just like me. You gotta love it when the locals love you that much eh?? HAHAHA!

Why I don't move my web site to another area, and bring all my riding friends with me, is beyond me... or is it?

On a brighter note, I enjoyed a wonderful meal last night at the Motel Montagnard with Michel and his family. These are very cool folks with a lot of class. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know them better. These are the people that won the Zen security award this winter because they spent 30,000 building a heated locking garage at their motel on the golf course in SMdS. (Thanks you Michel!)

Michel in Motel "M" CLICK HERE

Sat night
Sorry I have been so absent. I am so tired, I think the season has caught up with me. Al rose 200 miles today to Manawan Indian Village, and to Repo, everything 7, 8 and 9 out of 10. He had an amazing ride. That was today, yesterday he rode all over the local trails, said all were good or better, Real Masse closed, no gas. Riding still good. Amazing but true, But be ready for anything. Saw hundred or more sleds on trailers heading north today... people grabbing final rides of the season. zw

Wed Morning:
-18C and sunny! Groomers still out there.

Just received two donations by mail this morning, man does that feel good. It's not only the money, but the knowledge that people really appreciate what I do. Here in this village, the philosophy is different. They really do not get it. They think they understand me and what I am doing, but they do not. Some have even tried to copy my web site, thinking they know what I am about, but they do not. They all think it is about MONEY, but it is not! That is why they cannot copy what I do. Doing something for love is beyond their comprehension, and that's totally ok with me. It allows me to be unique!

This web site is all about love. I want you to have a good time up here, so I give you what little info I can scratch up. The local club is cloaked in secrecy, they tell no one which trails are groomed, unless you stay at a particular motel! This is not a secret, everyone is aware of this.

Anyways, the trails are still very good, with bits of connecting trails that are poor here and there. Yes it will be harder on your gear for sure, occasionally having to run a bad stretch here and there, but the bonus is the sunshine and milder temps.

As I said before, spring riding is not for the weak, but for the courageous and the adventurous. Once you get in the snow heading north, adventure untold awaits you, plus some incredible trails!

You should also call ahead to be sure your appointed gas pit stop is still open, as some close early. Real Masse is closed for example. They may still be selling gas, I do not know. There is still someone there, of this I am sure, and they would probably want to help if you are stuck.

There will be big and exciting changes in Zenwaiter.com nex fall, none of which I can talk about just yet. I can't wait! One things is for certain, I will need alot more input from you guys out there to bring in the good information. After you go for a ride, you will need to email me a report asap, with a few photos, so I can build a page that will inform those heading up of where to ride, eat, sleep etc!

New long sleve shirts coming in early next week! lg, xlg, 2x,3x,and even 4x! They have the real zenwaiter logo on the front, printed, and are long sleeve t-shirts. They will cost 30usd including shipping. I will have a photo up soon.

have a good one!

xxoo

Tuesday Afternoon
Trails still amazingly good, 8 inches fresh snow at Kanawata.

Crazy Al dropped by the Zenshack this afternoon at the same time as Paul from Michigan. Paul showed us a video of him and his son Alan Blais, riding at Kanawata. They actually filmed the entire trip, from St-Michel all the way to Kanawata, on the shortcut, you know, the string of lakes that take you straight up to the Repo. The video was shot on Sunday, and it was amazing. There is still tons of snow up here. Crazy Al spoke to his guest last night that said the trail 33 up to Manawan was 9/10! So, when I hear people telling me that the only good trail left is in Shawinigan, it just aint so! We have excellent trails up here yet. Those who know our area are still riding every day, those that know nothing, believe the jerk on Trail Conditions that said "Quebec is all done!" . Nothing could be further from the truth. We still have tons of snow, but ride towards the north. Click on the photo above to see the pics I took of Pauls son and his group Jan 8th 2004.

Sunday 8 AM
-10C fabulous day! New trail reports tonight. zw

Sat Mar 6th 2004 afternoon...
3 pm. -4C, everything frozen up nice and hard again, thank God, that mild shot was frightening. Snowed all morning. Trails still open for the rough & ready! Nervous Nellies stay home! 33 to Manawan very rough needs grooming, but the 345 to Repos still very good yesterday. That gives you 200 miles of great riding if you leave from St-Zenon. Also, there are sleds on the lake in front of the Refuge having fun. Supposed to drop to -12C tonight with snow. Stay tuned!

Sat 8 AM
Mushy and wet outside at +3C. A great day to ride your Quad on our winter quad trails. Supposed to get cold tomorrow and snow, but highs will rise up to +1 and +2 C during the days through Wed. with some snow Tues and Wed.

Fri nite... RAINING
Lite Rain since 6 pm turning the snow to mush. Temp is 0C currently. By morning should be cold again and snow through Tuesday with -10C temp.

The boys went to Marineaus (it was smooth all the way) and gassed up at the truck stop. Then they took the south loop back, which they said was really rough, not groomed. They got wet in the rain.

Fri Mar 5 2004
Wouldn't you know it, the snow is coming down like mad all morning, an inch so far, but it looks like we'll be getting a few more. The weatherman is off his rocker. Winter seems to be back. Paul Kovak has headed up to the Repos today and will give us a report with photos tonight. What did I tell you? You never know in the early spring, just what you're gonna get. If you have an adventurous bone in that body of yours, and you wanna ride, get up here. Finish off the year in style!

My Momma says... "Life is like a box of chocolates...you never know what you're gonna get!"

PS: Please pray for my Dad's recovery, he had a leg amputated yesterday due to gangreen, caused by diabetes. THANKS!

March 4 2004
Possible snow flurries today, risk of rain Friday and Saturday, sunny and cold on Sunday, with snow on Monday! WOW... typical early spring weather. Currently 0C. Yesterday was cold, and the slushy streets in town froze up solid, leaving my driveway a smooth skating rink.

If you come up to ride this weekend, prepare yourself mentaly for just about anything, that way you will not be disapointed. This is not the time for the weak of spirit. Yesterday I spoke to someone who went out the one way up to Repo, he said it was incredible. He saw no traffic. Yes, the one way was chewed up a little, but he has seen worse.

It's a crap shoot, and there will be some rough bits, but often, once you get away from the villages the trails are awesome, and very rewarding. At the very worst, you get way laid in some nice auberge, have a few beers, and tell lies the the Frech bar tender. What could be better than that?

March 1 2004

This time of year is my favorite time for riding. Sure, when you get into the villages, there are sometimes puddles, and the trails in town get tired and yellow, but the trails in the bush are amazing , usually until the last week of March. The weather is normally hovering around - 5C during the sunny days, and drops to -20C at night. The groomers still ride around and create the best trail they can, in our area at least.

This next few days will be mild. Today it is zero under a fabulous blue sky and bright spring sunshine. High tempos will be slightly above zero all week, with some rain Tuesday (supposedly), and snow Thursday and Friday. Temps will drop on the weekend again. Still many good times to be had here in St-Zenon.

I'll let you know tomorrow if it actually did rain! Personally I have my doubts.

Since I got back from NY, I have been preoccupied with a combination of spring cleaning, and web site work for one of my clients. I need income, so I have had to return to web site work. If I ignore my clients too long, it dries up.

The donations were up this year, but the sponsorships were way down. The hat sales were ... well, we sold about five of them! I gave away over thirty. oh well. I have some nice long sleeve t-shirts arriving this week, and yes, I even had a few 3 X and 4 X made up, seeing as how snowmobilers are not very small people on the whole! (Even I get bigger every year for some reason)!

The personal donations were a blessing, thank you so much, but it takes a lot of small gifts to replace one full sponsor. As the dead spring time approaches, I realize this effort is pretty much in the hole, and I am broke. (Luckily, this is nothing new to me. I prefer to call it volountary simplicity!)

On another note, personal threats were up, I even got vandalized this year, that was a first. I guess the price of truth and freedom have not gone down.

But overall popularity of the web site is what brings the biggest smile... Over one million visits were logged in since September 15th 2003! We cracked that milestone yesterday! That's double the people we had reading the web site last year, and there's still a month to go.

If one percent of the people who enjoy reading zenwaiter.com had sent in a lousy ten bucks, I would be able to hire a body guard, and not worry about speaking the truth, never mind filling the oil tank.

Speaking of improvements, it is really up to you guys to make the site better now. I paid to have the Bulletin Boards installed, and hardly anyone writes in it. Plenty read it, but it's not as powerful as it could be. You really must take five minutes, and learn how to POST your comments on these boards.. Once you know how, it only takes a minute to do it. You remain anonymous, and you will never get any junk mail.

I am going to start taking the letters you mail me, and stick them into the bulletin boards, because I get some fabulous letters full of information that would be helpful to others. As it is now, I just take some letters, and stick them onto the MAIL page... which is getting rather overstuffed now.

So, have a nice day, and come up in March if you dare! Get a tan, ride alone on the groomed trails with no traffic. WOW. If you have recently been blessed with a windfall of abundant cash, why not send us some.

PS: The computer appears to be on it's last legs, or at least the power source, and I can't blame her. She has been running non stop for almost two years, pumping out this site. When I turn it on, it takes a full three minutes before it fires up. This is very strange.

Don't be surprised if the site disapears alltogether, I have no funds to replace this old box. Hahahaha! What an unceremonious ending that would be to this peculiar voice in the wilderness of French speaking Canada! Probably a very fitting end....

just silently slip off the face of the earth.... shhhhhhh.....ker plop.

Read our MAIL BAG now...

Go to our Bulletin Boards and contribute...

Make cheques out to "Zenwaiter" & mail to

Zenwaiter
5831 Chemin Brassard
St-Zenon Quebec Canada
J0K 3N0

or buy a hat HERE

FEB 2004 ARCHIVES HERE

Friday Jan 31, 2003

Dinner at the Saw Mill again in ST-Michel, good as always.

David and Karen just got back from Roberval yesterday afternoon, and I saw all their photos. They did 1,200 miles in four or five days. You can see on the photos that there hasn't been a lot of snow this year, but the groomers have done an excellent job in creating good trail, just like they do around here.

Dave said things were better on the way up on Monday morning: it's great when you can follow the groomers, but almost impossible to predict with accuracy exactly when they will pass. There are so many factors which determine their actions... temperature, snow fall, money, men's schedules, break downs, traffic, etc etc. It is not an exact science.

I think the way we ride can determine how long the trails stay good, (if the weather stays cold that is... and it has this year). What do you say we all go a little easier in the curves, and preserve the trails for the next guy.

Another topic that came up was is the warming huts, or the lack of them. David says..

"Around St-Zenon and St-Michel, there used to be warming huts every 25 to 50 miles that were maintained, now they're all trashed, and some of them are gone altogether. The club doesn't maintain them anymore. But up near Roberval, they have them all over.

"It is a safety thing. If you break down, or if your are freezing to death, you can at least hold up in a safe place. This week my wife was freezing, and we used many huts up there to warm up. We'd like to thank those clubs for their efforts, and encourage the others to get back on track with their warming huts."

It's been busy here at the Zen Shack. I have so many photos to work on, and I am sort of burning out. Yesterday I took my old 1990 Lincoln to the dealer, and they have to replace the leaking head gasket, and timing chain gasket (something like that). I am looking at a bill of $1,800. to fix it, and I have no choice. The car is very good despite it's age, and I told them to go ahead.

So lets review shall we? Add that to my list of the perfect woman... one who can do auto repairs!

Let's see now... under 400 lbs, two legs, some teeth, under 80 years of age, computer savvy, likes to ride, likes house pets, non smoker, had a good bit of personal therapy, and... mechanical ability with full set of tools. PERFECT.

Speak English and French would also be an asset.

If you are a sponsor that has not paid up, this would be a great time to pay your bill. If you are one of the forty or so people that have told me this winter that you were going to mail or PAYPAL a donation to Zenwaiter, why not send it today.It would be a big help.

I appreciate both of you that made a donation this past week. Thank You!

Thanks dear Reader! Have a good day. Yes I know, Pray for Snow.

Hey, Don't forget the One Cylinder event on Lake St-Louis in St-Zenon on Sat Feb 8th. Should be a good time. You can access the lake on snowmobile, fro behind the Bistro!

BISTRO ST-ZENON STEAK HOUSE

Wed January 29th, 2003

St-Zenon at noon: - 11C.

I don't have time to chat this morning, sorry. Super swamped, the phone, the door, the e-mail etc etc.Will be a perfect weekend! Have a good one. zw

Tuesday January 28th, 2003

St-Zenon: -34C or -30 F.

St-Zenon: Whew, is it cold today! I am supposed to ride over to the Refuge to eat breakfast with the four guys we met in the Bistro last night, to show them the new room and the jet bath, and to talk Zen stuff.

I just went outside and tried to start the four stroke... no way. It turned over but that's it. Luckily I noticed a block heater under the hood the other day, where you plug it in at night to keep it warm. I think it may start in half an hour. That's great if you are parked ten feet from the Zen Shack, but what if you are in the woods somewhere, you're obviously screwed.

Peewee the plumber (husband of the beautiful Blue Eyes, daughter of the famous Rosey) came over yesterday and got the pump going again, so now I have water.

I have to use it very sparingly, as there is hardly any water in the well. I think it's good for about ten gallons a day and no more. That means one flush a day, a little dish water, and a sixty second shower. These three items must be spread out through the day, and of course, we pee outside with Rocky.

Back to diner at the Bistro. It was terrific. When I walked in and sat down, two of the four young bucks from the table sitting next to us, got very excited and wanted to shake my hand. Then someone at the bar, paid for a round of drinks was sent over from the bar.

We got talking, and discovered these six year St-Zenon veterans loved my web site. The one guy said he's been reading my site since before I had a site... back in the days when I just mailed out e-mail four years ago! Now that's a fan! I should be writing novels, I could afford to buy a snowmobile then eh?

They always consult the site before coming up, to see how the weather is, and to find out what's happening. Very nice boys, thank you.

Speaking of new stuff, Don't miss the One Cylinder rally on Lake St-Louis February the 8th. It should be a gas! That is 2 Saturdays from now.

Also, there is a week long festival of winter events going at the annual Shawinigan Grand Prix.

February 1 through 9, there will be Stock car action, and Oval racing to name just a few. If you like the Shawinigan snowmobile trails, go to their web site and get all the details. If you need a room, call Bernard, he'll help get you organized.

PS: Just went out to start to sled, it started perfect! I just had to plug it in! The Polaris Frontier, perfect sled for the old Zenman, won't go over 50 mph, and no good for far away in the bush, just good for around town! 10,000 bucks to run around the village? Hmmm... NOT! I'd rather have something old and beat up, but that will do 70 mph when needed, and will start anywhere... right?

But regardless, I appreciate having something to run around town in to meet you guys and gals. Lest you think I am an unappreciative swine, I would like to thank Moto Ducharme for lending it to me for a few days. It was cool. Moto Ducharme sells Polaris products in Joliette, be sure to stop in when you come up. They have jackets and helmets and all the toys too.

Four Stroke, the future of snowmobiling!
zw

Shawinigan Grande Prix
Caisse Populaire
Menu

January 27 2003

No water in the Zen Shack again this morning. That's it, I have to get a guy in here to drill a real artesian well. Thirteen bucks a foot is the cost these days around here. The old surface well is toast.

Many homes have run out of water this winter, due to the combination of drought in August and September, and the severe cold that we had so early this year before the snow came, which caused the frost to go down deep into the ground.

The old timers say, "If you have water in your well this winter, you will always have water in your well!"

By the way, the old timers were wrong about this winter... remember what they said in November? "This early cold and snow means that it will be mild with rain in January."

Yesterday was interesting, riding around on that 2002 Polaris four stroke. I could have written ten stories just from the people I met on the trail. I have to get a sled donated or sponsored for the entire winter, there's just too much good stories out there, and I am stuck in here. I also need a full time assistant. Any takers?

Surprised that I don't have my own sled? Don't be. I'm a writer photographer, not a sportsman. This is no secret to my regular readers. You don't have to be a rocket scientist to write about rocket science.

Having said that, I must add that I do love to ride, and I live in the best ride zone in Canada!

Writing about St-Zenon every day with no budget to ride, is like working in a chocolate factory on a no-chocolate diet.

One day we'll have a sled to ride the local trails. That's a goal. In the meanwhile, we'll just do what we can with what we have and be thankful!

Have a good Monday...EH?
zw

YESTERDAY'S Photos HERE

Menu HERE

Sunday night Jan 26

St-Zenon; - 15C the past two days, and received 4 inches of snow. It is currently snowing.

Spent the past two days riding the local trails on a four stroke Polaris 800 Frontier. Unfortunately, the dealer Ducharme had no other sled to offer me, and it is not in good running order. Constant backfires, and top speed is 50 mph.

Being the end of the weekend, our local trails are tired from the weekend warriors.

The local trails are indeed thin in many spots, but still ridable. I am talking about the local trails, the other 95 % of the trails on our big day loops arenear perfect.

Many Americans and Ontarian and Quebecers in the region enjoying wonderful conditions, plus it is no longer as cold as it was. The deep cold spell is passed us.

The sun was warm today while riding, and the landscape fantastic. The rural Quebec countryside all pristine pure white wilderness, and the mountains as a backdrop. The air revitalized me, and now I have to sleep!

zen

Friday Jan 24 2003

St-Zenon: -23 C. This super cold spell that has attacked most of Canada was kinda cool at first, (no pun intended), but after a while, it ain't so hot. The heater won't work properly in the car, the water pump froze twice, the well is basically dry, and no one comes to call. They stay at home, and so do I. I may be suffering from a mild case of cabin fever.

But for snowmobilers, cold temps mean table top surfaces around here.

The riders I have spoken to are raving about our trail system this winter, apart from the occasional rock on the busy local trails on weekends when traffic is at its' peak.

Some people from south of the border have been bragging to me about all there snow down there, but let's not forget that most of the trails are bumpety-bump. Our trails are smooth, but admittedly would be better with a few more inches of snow, which we are supposed to receive presently. Up here it's a different kind of riding.

When you ride this week, be sure to adjust your helmet vents properly; the risk of frost bite is real. Also, don't ride alone, and make sure your sled is tip top before attempting a long loop. Extra gas is always nice on those trips too.

Why not answer our daily Zen Poll ? (top left).

Have a good weekend.

Send me mail here.

Trails

Thursday Jan 23

St-Zenon: -23C this morning, with two inches of fresh snow.
Gusty with medium high winds all day yesterday and last night, created snow drifts, and probably dumped 3 or 4 inches of existing snow into the trails, which are being groomed up to perfection for the weekend warriors. More snow and cold coming. It's a good year! zw

Text Forecast from Environment Canada
Parc du Mont-Tremblant - Saint-Michel-des-Saints: Issued 05:00 AM est Thursday 23 January 2003
Today..Cloudy. Chance of some snow. Clearing this evening. High near minus 15.
Tonight..Cloudy periods. Low near minus 26.
Friday..Sunny with cloudy periods. High near minus 15.
Saturday..Scattered snow showers. Low near minus 25. High near minus 15. Probability of precipitation 40 percent.
Sunday..Scattered snow showers. Low near minus 22. High near minus 13. Probability of precipitation 40 percent.
Monday..Sunny. Low near minus 23. High near minus 15.
Normals for the period..Low minus 19. High minus 8.

Wednesday Jan 22

St-Zenon: - 32C and snowing.

Single Cylinder Racing in St-Zenon?

On February 8th there will be one cylinder sled racing on the Lake St-Louis in St-Zenon. Crazy Al has already been working on the oval to get it ready. The site is at the south entrance of the village across from the St-Louis Bar/Motel. This should be a good time. See you there.

Thanks!

Just a word of thanks to the few who have sent in donations. And also a word of thanks for the letters and the photos. Watch for them on the front page. Also, thanks for participating on the two bulletin boards. It helps out everyone that wants to ride in Quebec.

Zenwaiter a Beggar? NOT!

It has been suggested of late, that asking for donations is begging. I have thought this over, and have come to the conclusion that this premise is indeed false. Zenwaiter provides an important service that has value.

To build that value, takes equipment, phone lines, servers, office expenses and one crazy full time MF to take the photos and do the work. All of this has value, and those that benefit from it donate to the effort because they want to see it continue.

In fact, ZW is also very unique! Show me, if you can, one other web site that is updated daily with current snowmobile information on Quebec, with real photos, comments, and bulletin boards. There ain't none dear reader, not a one.

Not Zenwaiter...yet :)

REAL BEGGARS
There are however, some web masters, (people that make web sites) who are actually real live beggars. It's hilarious... and it's also sad.

I heard about this on TV. They build a web site, offer nothing but a sad tale and pathetic photo of themselves begging with a can of pencils on the street corner or whatever. Now THAT is a beggar. Zenwaiter is not a beggar.

Surprise yourself today... send me a photo of your last weekend ride with a brief description, and you may become a Zen Star on the Front Page! Better yet, send me a photo of a friend in a compromising position, and embarrass the hell out of him/her.

Trail Conditions Here

General Blah Blah Here

Learn to beg on the internet HERE

E-mail your snowmobile photo now! HERE

Buy A Used Sled? Zen's Free Classified Ads

Tuesday Jan 21 2003

St-Zenon: -34 this morning at 7 AM, now - 25C. Bright and sunny day. Weatherman says remaining cold and sunny with a few flurries on Wednesday.

Talk around town this week is of the eight morons from New Jersey who basically terrorized the area Thursday Friday and Saturday, culminating in the ring leader going to jail in hand cuffs.

These... people with limited mental capacity, did burn outs, and continuos 360's at Peewee's Depanneur, blasting a stream of ice and gravel on peoples vehicles and property, , smashed a beer bottle over someone's head, ( A friend of mine), and destroyed property on someone's farm land near the village, doing jumps over piles of wood.

They had some rental sleds which they damaged to the tune of over 3,000 bucks.

Drinking and riding? They must have been drunk, because they acted like total imbeciles during their entire visit, causing trouble at all the gas stations, bars, hotels and restaurants.

They are fortunate they didn't kill themselves or someone else on the trail, and the guy who got injured from the bottle incident, apparently has a damaged eye.

The farmer where you did your jumping wants the club to close the trail that runs through his land. After ten years of working to get people to allow trails, YOU loosers come up and ruin it all.

The worst part is that you really frightened a whole lot of people here, women and children and the like, but I don't suppose that bothers your conscience.

We have some of the best trails in the world here, and you come up to get drunk, threaten the locals, cause damage to property every where you go, and damage our club's reputation. Unbelievable.

I still can't believe it. You give New Jersey a bad name.

Your ring leader ended up in jail, and I hope he is still in there for a month.

Daddy's credit cards might have bailed you out this time, but with your level of ignorance and disregard for other people, you will surely reap a whirlwind of misery that no amount of cash will help you escape.

What goes around, comes around, if you live long enough you'll find that out. But do us all a favour, don't come back,
you're no longer welcome.

Monday January 20, 2003

St-Zenon: -20C, or -2 F this morning. Two inches of new snow overnight.

I just spoke to Yanick at Kanawata, north of the Repos, and he just got in from a ride on their 100 or so miles of trails. He reports that the trails are excellent, and they just got 6 new inches of snow over the past few days. You can call Yanick, he does speaka da English a little. He will be glad to answer any qns you may have. Kanawata Inn 450-819-666-2007.

I read in the "Journal de Montreal", that the Laval Police are out in full force on the trails with the hidden radar guns.

This was their first campaign of the year, and they had helicopter support.

" We do about 4 or 5 of these operations a year", explains Martin Legare, a safety officer with the Laval Police. "We want to ensure that snowmobilers are respecting the speed limit, and also, we offer safety advice. At least once a year, we will set up a surprise trail block to check for alcohol as well."

There will be twelve volounteers sent out by the Laval club who will patrol the trails and issue tickets for infractions. "Last year, explained the officer", the club handed out one ticket to a snowmobiler, and 35 tickets to quad riders who were riding on the designated snowmobile trails."

"The new local quad club is a nuisance", said Alain Roberge, "they use our trails, and they can ride even when there is no snow."

Last year the quad club had over 1,000 members in Laval, this year the number is down to 450.

"Our grooming costs are the same as last year, said Roberge, but we have only half the budget to get the job done."

Translated by ZW

Interesting stuff
for your reading pleasure.

"Snowmobile buzz echoes in White House
Traditionally, the Washington's Birthday weekend is the busiest stretch of snowmobile-riding in Yellowstone, but this year it has taken on special meaning as politicians, environmentalists, and tourism-industry officials battle over the fate of a snowmobile ban scheduled to go into effect here and in Grand Teton National Park within two years." By Todd Wilkinson

Click Here for Full Story

Sat Jan 18 2003 8 AM

COLD -30 C but it feels like -50.

39,892 people logged onto Zenwaiter.com over the past 30 days, and we have recieved about $ 300.us in donations and sponsorship. That averages out to $00.0075203 per reader this month.

Let's assume that half of the 39,892 visits were made by people that read the site every day. We'll take 19,946 visits and divide it by 30 days. That gives us 664 actual people.

Now lets assume the others only come once a month, that gives us 19,946 people.

Add the two together, and we can safely assume that we had 20,610 people who actual read the web site, over the past month.

Lets cut that in half just to be sure... giving us 10,305 actual snowmobilers that read Zenwaiter in the past month. (and on average they do stay in the site about 30 minutes, requesting about 10 pages each).

If only 10 % of those had contribute 10 bucks, (which is the price of a snowmobile magazine), the Zenwaiter office would have received $10,000. usd.

If only 1 % had sent in 10 bucks, we would have received 1,000.usd.

That would have been nice now wouldn't it?

T-shirts don't work, we can't get the local bars to stick out donation jars, Pay Pal seems a waste of time, and nothing is coming in the mail.

Zenwaiter works 12 hours a day for 300. a month, then has to go out and pay all the expenses with that.

Guess what. It just don't add up. It seems to me that it could be working extremely well. What do you think?

Tha car won't start today, I should have plugged it in.

Have a good Saturday. zw

Friday Jan 17

St-Zenon: - 30C at 7 am. OUCH! that's -20 F. These are the temperatures you love to see because they maintain the snow that we have. We got a dusting yesterday.

Remaining cold with new snow coming Sunday and Monday.
More weather HERE.

Yesterday we saw dozens of enclosed trailers streaming up during the day in long parades. Should be a busy weekend.

PS: 'Yummie' my calico cat, has finally earned her keep after three years! She caught a mouse in the kitchen, killed it, then tossed it into the Rocky's water dish. Good kitty! :)

So, any single women out there wanna come live with the Zenman and the Zenmice in the Zenshack? I'm single! LOL (yes, and now we know why.)

Hey, at least they're not rats!

Trail info HERE

Write Zen Now?

Thursday Jan 16

Good morning. St. Zenon is -30 this morning, and the sun is brilliant. The trails are fabulous. What more could a snowmobiler ask for?

David and Steve had breakfast with me, loaded up their sleds, and have headed back for NH. They left us with some amazing images of the trails north of the dam heading to Kanawata.

The discussion around the breakfast table at the Casse Croute des Parkes, was on the "idiots that ride in circles around the Cabanon." said David.

"The trails get wrecked every day by these idiot throttle jockeys that ride in circles around on the local trails that go from the Cabanon to the Bistro to the St-Louis, and to the Glaciere, then back again. They drive like maniacs, totally out of control, and on the knolls, they stay right in the middle of the trail as if there was no one else on the trails. They hit the brakes into the corners and go sideways, then gun the throttle on the way out, trashing the trails beneath them. After just one day, the trails are a series on lumps like Tug Hill. When we ride, we respect the trail, and the hard work and expense that goes into making them."

"The Police should give tickets to people that ride through curves out of control and do not stay to the right. Instead, they stick a radar on the straighaway, and hand out tickets for speed, which is not dangerous." I reminded Dave that the Police enforce the speed limit. He understands that, but says "they should wait after a curve, and ticket people for dangerous and reckless riding instead."

Personally I think we should have one course for the guys that want to hog the trail to themselves. It should be 100 miles of one way. The trouble is, that as soon as they trash this course, they will run onto the regular trails and terrify the normal folk.

In any event, half the people that come to this area have high performance machines with a million studs, and are interested in riding as fast as they can. The other half do the bigger loops to enjoy the pristine trails that lie to the north.

Last week there were two snowmobilers that were killed in a head on accident, neither was on the right side of the trail. I think this occurred in the US somewhere, though it easily could have happened right here.

The Police should set up a sting somewhere to nail people that do not stay on the right in corners, as this is the most dangerous action a snowmobiler can do. It is a miracle we don't have more accidents.

Anyways, Dave and Steve are gone, and they will be missed. They did 800 miles in three days of exceptional riding. They went out at 6 AM every day, and took advantage of perfect grooming done by the local club. They enjoyed near perfection every day, and are returning here again next week to do a long treck to Parent, Clova, Seneterre Casey, all the way to Val D'Or. They will again take photos for us!

Have a good one, and stay to the right!

Trail Conditions Discussion
Trail Condition Links
Menu

Last Minute Room for this Weekend?

Wed Jan 15 2003

St-Zenon: -20C today and grey skies. It was - 30C last night. Some light snow this week then Sat and Sun heavier snow here, but no, they never tell you how much you'll get. Also, -30C again tonight, remaining clod all week. The trails will remain optimal.

No news at all from the local club about trails or about anything. It's up to you to give reports when you get back home to your computer.

TRAIL CONDITIONS DISCUSSION BOARD

PLEASE "REFRESH"

I keep meeting people who don't realize that we change the Index page almost every day, (that is the page you first come to with the photos on it) as well as this page. You mean we do all this updating work for nothing? ALWAYS click on refresh when you land on this page and on the Index page, or else you are reading yesterdays news.

Another thing they don't get, is that every photo on the Index page has ten or more photos behind it. You just click on the picture!

Hardly any mail this year from you folks, and about half the donations of last year, yet the site is three times as big, has 50% more traffic, and the info is more current. I just may have lock this page up with a code, and charge 25. usd for the key. I don't want to go in the hole.

And yet.... the info here seems to be important and valuable to folks. At dinner the other night in the Bistro, a lady from South New Jersey, explained to me how this web site saved one of her family vacations last year, and how thankful they were; it saved them a bundle of cash too. But no donation was forth coming, (she may have mailed one in last year, hard to tell). Very nice gal.

I didn't remember the phone call, because there were so many last year, in all that rain. I took a lot of heat for those weather reports last year, and I am happy to report all the good news this year.

On a brighter note, we have a fan in the IT business who'll be here Thursday. Jim says he may have some solutions for us on the server side to make our thing more cost effective. It may also eliminate our hacker friend who crashes the site every time we talk about rain or theft.

Nick A. from NY is still here at the Glaciere with a gang of New Yorkers, and has been having a ball on the trails, as is Sexy Ron, NH Dave with buddy Steve, and hundreds more.

Dave says he rode to St-Come yesterday, and it was a ten, but on the return trip, it was a 4. He almost got killed by a bunch of idiot throttle jockeys who were riding in the middle of the trail, almost out of control. "I can't believe there aren't more deaths up here." he said.

If you can't stay on your side of the trail kids, please ride go back to Tug Hill, don't come to St-Zenon. Unfortunately, I realize that we are preaching to the choir here! Most of you folks are super responsible. You folks can read! hahaha!

Don't forget to go to the Trail Board to find out what is happening. Don't just read it, POST ON IT! It's very easy, and no, it is not dangerous. 500 to 1000 people a day read it, and hardly any posts!

Okay, that's it, I'm going for a limp around the block. Wait, there is no block. Guess I'll just pace back and forth! Got any Valium? :)
zw

Tuesday Jan 14 2003

St-Zenon: -20F or -30C this morning. Five inches of snow yesterday. Trails outstanding. Photos of yesterdays trails to Repos below..

Breakfast with Nick and the boys yesterday morning at the Glaciere. Nice gang he has this year from New York.

Probably this will be the best riding in past few years. Not much traffic during the week. Ate at the Bistro last night with Sexy Ron, NH Dave, Crazy Al, and a flock of desperadoes from South New Jersey! Nice folks that. Bistro was full.

New Trail Photos Here

New Race Photos HERE

Trail Reports HERE

Monday Jan 13 2003

St-Zenon C: -12 C and snowing, with one inch so far. Finally some snow. Lets hope we get the foot we need.

The weekend was busy here, but not as busy as the week before. We are getting Quebecers from all over, folks from Ontario, where there is no snow in many places, and of course our Americans.

Last night I ate at the Saw Mill in St-Michel again, because David from New Hampshire is back, and that is his favorite place. The food is good, and has been for 38 years.

My right knee is sore, and worse this morning, because I went out on the lake yesterday to take photos of the racing sleds. At over 100 miles per hour on a short track, it is wild. Nothing official about it at all, but the guys do it anyway.

I will try to get the pictures up on the Index page for tomorrow.

Have a good one. Snowing! zw

Trail Conditions

General Talk

Weather

Sunday Morning January 12th, 2003

- 12 C this morning, and all is quiet. I'll bet a few bar tenders worked hard last night, as there were sleds everywhere in the area.

The trails are running good to excellent, depending on where you ride. We could use more snow for sure, but the cold and the good base, and the excellent grooming has well maintained the 1,000 km of trails.

The weatherman says snow and continuing cold for the next three or four days, so lets expect more of the white stuff!

Three experienced riders last night from Vermont, rated our trails 8.5 out of 10. They have been riding here 15 yrs, and their opinion does stand for something. (even if they are from Vermont! ) hahaha :) Just kidding!

zen!

PS: Sexy Ron and NH Dave are both heading up tonight, that means good trail pictures soon. You had better mail me your photos too though right?? eh?? Thanks

PS: A lot of you have told me on the phone and in e-mails that you will bring me a donation here, but that is not working. Only a few donations came that way so far this winter. You guys come up to ride, then you leave, and we pass like two ship in the night.

Please mail your donations, because it is almost impossible to track you down when you get up here, and I don't have the time to try.

This is serious guys! If you like the site, mail a donation by PAY PAL , just click the button up top, or make your check to Zenwaiter, mail to

Zenwaiter
5831 Chemin Brassard,
St-Zenon QC,
Canada, J0K 3N0.

No joke, this site does cost money to produce and maintain, and there's none coming in! I don't want to be forced to switch over to a pay site format. If it does, it will be 25 usd for the year. Let's keep it free. zw

zenwaiter@canada.com

Trail Board Here

General Board Here

Saturday Morning January 11th

-30C this morning and sunny. That's -20F!

Getting more phone calls from Ontario, Cornwall called to say they have no snow, and that they will be heading our way. St-Zenon could be a very busy place if this continues! But it is nice to actually have good trails and cold weather here, real nice.

A few of you have mailed in photos and letters, go see them on the Mail page! Thanks a lot. I hope more of you will take the time to write in and send your trip pictures. Everyone appreciates you for doing this. Scan them, and e-mail them to me..

zenwaiter@canada.com

Trail Talk

General Talk

PS: We have gone over 100,000 visitors since March 20th 2002! That was our total last year from March to March. This means that out hit counter should reach 150,000 before March 20 2003! 50% more people than last year! Not bad for an amateur site eh? Thanks to you people out there. zw

Friday afternoon/evening.

It was a beautiful cold and sunny day with snow that goes crunch under foot.

A stream of enclosed snowmobile trailers are parading past the Zen Den in anxious anticipation of good riding, and no one will be disappointed this weekend, except those who just bar hop back and forth over the local trails...but even those trials are in good shape at this moment.

Just had a chat with David Mc. from beautiful downtown Ottawa.

David, I gotta say, it feels good to talk to a fellow Anglo Canadian; a rare treat for me up here. Thanks for calling and I am glad we could find you the room you need. And yes, I will gladly get a few pictures of you having a good time, and no, that doesn't require a donation. Better yet, you bring you own digital camera, and shoot TRAIL pictures, which is what I really want, I will post them.

Now after that nice English chat, I feel really lonely. Ahhhh... poor Zenman!

Perhaps I'll stroll up the road one kilometer, and drop in for a Coke at the Lac St-Louis Bar/motel... for a little ahhh, exotic entertainment. Perhaps they will feel sorry for me eh? Nah... not gonna happen... I don't feel up for it.... not gonna happen...

I know, I'l'l just take a little nap and wait for the phone to ring. I'm sure I will be called out to take a picture somewhere, and meet some new friends!

The sound of modified pipes are in the air all around my cabin.. This should be a huge weekend up here.

zen

Friday Jan 10 2003

St-Zenon; -15C , sunny. We're set for a great weekend. Remember, try to venture out on the loops that take you to the edge of our territory. You'll meet less traffic, and the trails will be better.

Lots of complaints about people using up the entire trail again this year. Please, stay to the right, or you'll hurt someone. You are never alone on these trails, and you must share the them with others.

Have a great weekend! zw.

Trail Condition Discussion Board

Thursday Jan 9th, 8 AM

Moscow: - 50C.

St-Zenon: - 26C or -12F
Two inches of new snow yesterday morning. Looks like this weekend is one you won't wanna miss up here! The trails are running from good to excellent, and there is more snow on the way, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.

We had a nice steak last night at the Bistro St-Zenon Steak House. The New Hampshire gang left early this morning. Go see their trail pictures from yesterday HERE.

Giidy-up!

Trail Conditions Discussion Board

Need Help? Call Zen 450-884-1818

Wed morning Jan 8th, 8 am

St-Zenon: We got two fat inches last night of granular snow, now this stuff is good as gold for the trail. Inch by inch works, we'll take it! Currently -10 C. no wind.... AND SNOWING HEAVY! Yeah baybee! It just started a few minutes ago, but it looks like it means business. With no wind, does that mean the snow cloud will just sit over our head all day? I hope so. How exciting!

Yesterday David forgot to take pictures of the 345 up to the Repos, but he assured me it was 8/10. I know him well, and if he says 8/10, it means perfect to you! He has ridden here for 20 years and is fussy as hell.

You should be here, that's all there is to it! 1,000 kilometers of trails, and very good conditions. With global warming, it appears that good conditions are becoming increasingly rare, unless of course the hole in the ozone is a pile of horse puckie!

One way or the other, they are calling for more snow Friday and Saturday, with temps remaining steadily cold at - 15 to -17C.

David also said the trail was frozen up nice and hard. David is strictly honest on this, you can take his work, he's the real deal on a sled.

(Gosh I love to give out the good news, feels good!)

{I just saw a semi trailer go past the front window, through the snowy highway, with two full rows of new Polaris snowmobiles in the cases stacked two high. What a site!}

zen

Please write your trail conditions HERE!

Need A last minute ROOM?
Call the Zen Man Now! 450-884-1818

Tuesday Morning Jan 7 2003
St-Zenon: Sunny and still this morning, and another inch of snow! One inch at a time, we have accumulated about four new inches, which helps the groomers.

Please participate in our Trail Conditions Discussion Board, for reports on the St-Zenon area, and on any other area in Quebec as well. It's up to you to make this a valuable resource of honest trail reports.

Weatherman calling for light snow over the next few days, 3 cm here 5cm there. We'll take it! It adds up!

Trail Report Discussion HERE

Have a good day. zw

Monday night
The New Hampshire delegation just bought me dinner at the Saw Mill, Dave is on that Atkins No Carb diet, and has lost
30 pounds. I want to loose some weight too.

He says the trails beyond the dam are nice. Around town, he says he's seen much better days. He says we need snow. He also said today was a 9 out of ten for someone who just had to ride! He says it's a little tough on your carbides. He's riding out again tomorrow.

(He loves to complain 'cause he's used to our trails, and has been spoiled here for years.) He admits that anyone new to these trails would still love them.

Just spoke to Dr. C about my bad knee, he says I probably blew my cartilage while doing those deep knee bends in front of the pool table last week at the Motel Sportif. He told me to use warm compresses and prescribed some gentle movements that will help it along. I am in pain. (whine)

Our health care system here in Canada is free, yes, this is true, but you can die while you're waiting to get results from your tests. I had a knee x-ray last week and they told me it'll be 10 days before the Doctor calls me. But if I don't harass him, he'll never call.

So do not feel bad America, when you pay for private health care. We pay too, big time taxes, and at least you guys get good service.

That's my bitch for the day. On the bright side, it DID snow flurries all day, which can't hurt. Perhaps another inch.

Good night America and Ontario, and all the people here in Quebec that also read my gibberish! zw

PS: Almost 2,000 visitors again today. Last week we hit a new record of 2,600 readers in one day! Woooohooo! Now if everyone just mailed in one buck, I'd be rich! hahahaha. All kidding aside, it does take money to run this thing, and we haven't had hardly any donations in weeks. "cough cough...choke... sputter sputter..."

Why not just mail the old Zenwaiter a New Years Gift??

Make Check Payable to
Zenwaiter

mail it to

Zenwaiter
5831 Ch Brassard
St-Zenon Quebec, Canada
J0K 3N0

Thanks for your support.
PPS: PLEASE send in some stories and some photos of your Quebec or US or Ontario snowmobile riding, and I will stick you on the front page! You can be a Zen Star! You and your motely crew of no goods on the Front Page???

Just think of it! You can tell all your friends that you are famous! Just do it! You guys are getting lazy this year! Send your photos (2 at most please) to zenwaiter@canada.com

Send in an embarassing photo of a friend, and I'll run it on FRONT!

Plus, over 1,000 people a day have been reading our new Trail conditions board page, but only 1 or 2 write on it. What's up with that? Is it too hard to use? I think not!

TrailConditions Board HERE!

General Discussion Board HERE!

Pitter Patter, you best get at 'er!

your pal zen

Memories from last year.

Me and BobPetit on air live, last winter.

I got booted off that show for good, as soon as "they"
found out I tell the truth about the weather! Ooops! We can't have THAT now can we? If CNN and CBC, and ABC, and CBS can talk about the weather, so can I. (Not Bob's fault, he loves me!)

zw; still feisty as ever, and proud of it. Fortunately for me, the trails have been good around here this year, otherwise, I would have been strung up to dry long ago! Yiha! followed by nervous laughter!

Monday Jan 6 2003
7:40 AM, -10C snowing. We got an inch overnight, making a total of three inches of snow in the past few days. I realize that doesn't sound like much. New Hampshire got another 20 inches this week. However, remember, that we have the steady cold temperatures, and any snow we get, we hang on to, and we groom it into our trails.

Our trail base is rock solid. This measly three inches will help alot. We are still looking for a good storm to boost the base, or a continuous few inches here and there, to maintain what we have.

To learn more, consult the boards.

Trail conditions
General Comments
Book a Room?
Select a Restaurant?
Rent a Sled?

Sunday morning Jan 5th

St-Zenon: We got another inch last night. Temp - 10C.

Need a last minute room? Call my buddies!

REAL MASSE
(450) 884-5502

THE REFUGE INN
(450)884-5050 French)
(450)884-1818 English)

WEATHER

Sat 10:30 pm

Looks like New York Snowmobile Clubs have a major problem with their Insurance! GO SEE HERE

We got one inch of snow today, more tonite I hope.

Saturday Jan 4

St. Zenon: -8 C Snowing. Got no snow Friday.

(UPDATE!)10AM: Just got a call from Karine, she is in St-Donat unloading her sleds with Bruce, and says the parking lot is jammed with sleds everywhere! Looks like St-Donat is happening! Also it is snowing there too! Praise be! zw

Text Forecast from Environment Canada
Parc du Mont-Tremblant - Saint-Michel-des-Saints: Issued 05:00 AM est Saturday 4 January 2003

Today..Cloudy. Chance of very light flurries. High near minus 7.
Tonight..Variable cloudiness. Low near minus 14.
Sunday..Variable cloudiness. High near minus 4.
Monday..Snow showers. Low near minus 10. High near minus 8. Probability of precipitation 60 percent.
Tuesday..Intermittent snow. Low near minus 16. High near minus 7.
Wednesday..Snow. Low near minus 9. High near minus 7. Normals for the period..Low minus 18. High minus 8.

Last night I dropped by the bar at the St-Louis Hotel for ten minutes, and took a few photos of owner Nancy, waitress Jennifer, and Meo the security gaurd.

There were a few boys there from N.Y. having a good time. "We are staying in St-Donat. The trail over to St-Zenon was smooth and passable, with a few rocks here and there, but you guys need more snow."

I agreed, but reminded him that many of our loops to the north are still very nice, as they have had less traffic. Plus, the forecast says we'll get some snow soon.

Do the snow dance. zw

New Photos

Trail Conditions

PS: Enjoying this web site today? Find Yourself reading it daily? Why not send us a mini donation of $5.00 usd. It would really help. Just click on the Pay Pal button here! Why Not? It will help Zen pay for the server, the computer, the soft ware etc etc.... :) Thanks.

Text Forecast from Environment Canada
Parc du Mont-Tremblant - Saint-Michel-des-Saints: Issued 05:00 AM est Saturday 4 January 2003
Today..Cloudy. Chance of very light flurries. High near minus 7.
Tonight..Variable cloudiness. Low near minus 14.
Sunday..Variable cloudiness. High near minus 4.
Monday..Snow showers. Low near minus 10. High near minus 8. Probability of precipitation 60 percent.
Tuesday..Intermittent snow. Low near minus 16. High near minus 7.
Wednesday..Snow. Low near minus 9. High near minus 7. Normals for the period..Low minus 18. High minus 8.

Friday Jan34th

St. Zenon: -10C of +15 F. Some flurries today. In the region the snow forecast has changed...

Text Forecast from Environment Canada
Parc du Mont-Tremblant - Saint-Michel-des-Saints: Issued 05:00 AM est Friday 3 January 2003
Today..Cloudy. Chance of very light flurries. High near minus 7.
Tonight..A few flurries. Low near minus 13.
Saturday..Very light flurries. High near minus 7.
Sunday..Clear periods. Low near minus 13. High near minus 5.
Monday..Snow. Low near minus 8. High near minus 6.
Tuesday..Sunny. Low near minus 16. High near minus 11. Normals for the period..Low minus 18. High minus 8.

What is a Perfect Trail...?

I have been getting e-mails that say

" I am waiting for the perfect trails Zen... are the trails perfect yet?"

But... "perfect trails" are not the same for everyone, it is a relative term.

For a novice, who lives in Delaware, "perfect trails" will mean one thing, and for a veteran snowmobiler who lives in Indian Lake N.Y., it will mean something totally different. For the guys who prefer grass drags... etc.

So when you ask me if the trails are perfect, and that you will not come up until they are perfect, well, I can't really answer you.

The state of "Perfect Trails" is one which resides in the mind of the sledder. And besides, the weather worn snowmobile veteran knows, that God only gives you that "perfect trail" on special occasions, that's what makes those days so excellent.

Most of the time, you go through the motions; investigate the weather, talk to trusted friends about conditions, consult the maps, pack the trailer, take time off work, negotiate with the family, hit the cash machine at the bank, drive for hours, and then finally... ride.

Snowmobiling is not for the frightened little guy or gal who needs perfect trails. It is a sport for the gutsy, ballsy, adventurous spirits, who abound with optimism, energy, and courage.

Having said all that... allow me to invite you to visit our region.

We have an excellent base due to the skills of our local club's groomer, (nine of them), and due to their trail making skills in the summer months. Over 1,000 kms of trails that roll through small villages, parks, and vast expanses of logging country.

We do need more snow, and they have promised it. Near the villages, St-Come, St-Emily, St-Damien, St-Zenon, St-Donat, St-Michel etc, you may see a few icy spots, and the occasional potatoe, but out their on the loops, you will find some excellent riding, and by that I mean, well groomed trails. 150 to 200 miles a day, is easily done.

So, Like St-Donat Sarah always says, Start Prayin' and do the Snow Dance, and maybe one day, you'll get your Perfect Trails.

Cheers.
A long winded zw.

PS: I enjoyed a wonderful sea food tortiere last night in the family dining room at Real Masse. The feeling of hospitality I got there touched me deeply, and I want to extend my sincerest thanks to Mr Masse and his family.

I have tons of photos for you, and a police report, but I have to go to the hospital today for x-rays, I have been having trouble walking. (ouch)?????? Old age creeping eh? Something is wrong with my right knee. zw

PPS: Over 2,500 unique visitors to ZW yesterday, that's a record. Thank you!

Index
Menu
Photos
RealMasse

New Bulletin Board on Trail Conditions!

Jan 2 2003
St.:Zenon : 8 AM. I just got a call from the Refuge, everyone is having breakfast and being served on hand and foot! They are loving it. They were all riding on the lake last night.

Cold here this morning-20C or -3 F. Sky looks clear. Shd be another good day. Chance of flurries Friday, then snow Sat, Sun, and Mon. Pray this comes true!

The Bistro Steak House was packed last night, and I took the Indiana folks over there for a good feed. Anne works there now and she was very sweet as usual. It was nice. Have a good one.

Main Menu
Trail Conditions Board
DIscussion Board
Weather

Jan 1 2003

St. Donat. Hi, Sarah has a new report, go see it now.
SARAH HERE

Jan 1 2003
Good Morning
St-Zenon New Years day 1:15 PM
Sunny, - 10 C, some light flurries earlier. Snow is being predicted for Friday Saturday, and Sunday.

I had breakfast at the old Saw Mill in St-Michel-des-Saints, with three big guys from Connecticut.

"We spent two nights at Real Masse and two nights here at the Saw Mill Motel. Both places were excellent, good beds, clean rooms, and excellent food.

"Real Masse is really a class act. That guy has class!" said John V. from Glastonbury CT. He has been coming up here since 1984 and rides about 2,500 miles a year. "Apart from the occasional potatoe and a few icy spots, the trails are really good, and there are no bear patches."

"We rode 140, 150 miles a day so far, and now we have to go back to work this morning!"

They say the 33 is really closed, but they got around it anyways, but got off the trail to do it. They did several other big loops successfully. Their group also included Mike W. and Lloyd F., both from South Windor.

Kent at the Refuge says he is very happy riding with his wife and two kids, there is no traffic, everyone else went home. They ride every day, and are racking up the miles.

I assume the club is grooming steady, sure would be nice if they would call me once in a while to give me an update, but they do not. Good thing all you riders tell me what is happening out there.

And speaking of that, all of you that just went home... Please go onto the new bulletin board and write your comments so others can hear about your riding in Quebec! CLICK HERE NOW.

PS: Like this web site? Tell a friend. When you come to Quebec, be sure to tell the motels and restaurants that serve you, that you think ZW is a good thing. Who knows, we may even convince a few in the new year!

Menu Here

Yesterdays photos here.

Real Masse HERE

zenwaiter@canada.com

Dec 2002 Archived Comments HERE

FEB.28, 2003
-26C and sunny today.

NH David called in yesterday afternoon. They rode about 200 miles all around the back of Lake ST-Jean, trails excellent, but sled running like crap with the second hand track that has no studs. More from NH David soon.

Last night PA's insatiable King Kat and his crew raised a little hell at Real Masse's dining room! Here, we see Real trying to restrain Mike's enthusiasm. More Here.

I just translated Bob Petit's new comments below. zw

Read Bob Petit latest Comments here

Julie is selling her own house on the Lake across the road from the St-Louis Hotel on the lake. She has always been a huge zen supporter, so I told her I'd let you all know that this is a good house for an American snowmobiler, and a good deal. Julie has re-done just about everything, heat, wiring, landscaping, you name it. If you want to see the house when you come up, contact Zen 450-884-1818.

Thursday FEB. 27th

More Ottawa Riders at the Refuge

Had the distinct pleasure of talking to another English Canadian, this time from North Gower near Ottawa. English Canadians are very rare indeed up here at the Zen Shack!

David Mc is his name, ring leader on the notorious Gower Gang, that includes Jim and Richard, who are here, and the two that backed out at the last minute, Ian and Frank (weak minded loosers apparently).

Guys that Back Out...
And speaking of loosers, don't you just hate that when your buddies back out at the very last minute? We should do a contest for the most lame excuse. "I have to work, my wife says "whatever", my dog need his shots... etc.

In fact, David Mc tells me that one of the Radio stations in Ottawa is actually holding a contest for the best excuse to give your wife when you wanna go out with the boys... (I think that's what he said)... The prize for the contest is, you get to go to the best girlie bar in Ottawa, then off to an Ottawa Senators game, then back to the girlie bar! Sounds like a plan!

But seeing as how our Zen surveys reveal that almost 50% of our readers are women, we here at ZW must disagree with this contest whole heartedly. How could any radio station give away a prize that includes a trip to the girlie bar??? DISGUSTING!

Anyways, we pity the two that didn't come. The others started their day at Lac Simon, and enjoyed 199 miles of heavy powder on flat trails, with hardly any traffic yesterday. Our trails here now are as perfect as they can get.

No news from David this morning. If you missed his adventures yesterday click here.

Karine's Gaspe Adventure HERE

Wed FEB. 26 2003 7AM
Good morning Zen readers! - 32C today and sunny. Saturday and Sunday will be sunny too, and - 17 C. Perfect weather, not too cold. Trails amazing. Smooth and hard. Make this your weekend to remember. Bring the camera, and when you get home, be sure to go on our bulletin board, and share your experience with the world. See you in St-Zenon this weekend!

Spoke to David in Lake St-Jean. His continuing treck HERE.

Letter of the Day...

Got this letter today from Tim Renfrette of PA, who just got back from St-Zenon. He had a blast up to the Repos from the Glaciere, he says...

"Zen, We had terrific time. We averaged over 200 miles a day what blast. Met some real nice people. The thing I like the best was the scenery. The cost was not as much as I estimated. I'LL BE BACK!!!!! Tim

Nude Snowmobilers Here

Tuesday Night...
Just got this letter from Karine, she says the Gaspe was a total blast!

"Hey u!
I came back from a week of snowmobiling in Gaspe.... Lots of snow pretty much everywhere... Around Bonaventure not much snow but trails still great. We did a total of 1800 miles and I would give almost 10 out of 10 to the whole trip!! Say just let say a good 9.5/10 on trail conditions. I'm sending you some pictures!!! I went there with Bruce and Glenn from Vermont. The pictures with the big snow banks is on trail 595..... wow!! Great trail!!! You take care my dear and hope to see you soon.
Bye!
Karine

GO SEE KARINE'S Photos! click here

FEB.25 2003, 7 AM

The day after the storm

The Zen Shack. This was taken yesterday.

-23C in St-Zenon. Winter blue sky.

NH David called from Chapais
(rode 325 miles today)
just outside of Chibougamau last night.Stayed at the MOTEL CASSI, great deal. For 2 guys, it cost 55.cnd total, and that included a free beer, and breakfast! WHAT??? That is a helluva deal! Call them to book at 418-745-3663.

The trail was good, because they did not receive that huge dump up there, and they already had lots of snow that was well groomed, the riding excellent, the trails were wide. NH David and Muscleman Al rescued two surveyors, under contract from Hydro Quebec, workers who had run out of gas and were building a shelter to spend the night in the bush (one hour before dark). They were 30 miles from their truck, and they were 50 miles from gas. We siphoned gas into their sled, and struggled to get their sled. (They were towing a utility trailer, and had no gas in it) "They had no business being out there so far, and so unprepared." said Dave.

"There's a big snow cross event in Chibougamau this weekend, Blair Morgan, and Tucker Hibert, and lots of other important riders, all the top riders will be there".

Dave and Al are heading up to Lac St-Jean, and then are going to ride around the lake. More reports tomorrow.

Remember friends, you too can be a Zen Star like NH Dave!

Just call in your report to Zenwaiter, please give your daily mileage, and a trail rating, out of a perfect ten. Call anytime 450-884-1818. This way, your other friends out there can benefit from your experience.

If you have been waiting for the perfect time to come up friends, this is it. The trails are 10/10, even that one that runs from St-Zenon to St-Michel, photo below.

Photo taken Monday. GET UP HERE MAN!

In Other news.
As the end of the month approaches, Zen notices that the cash flow is low in the Zen Shack. I have no time to drop in to the bars and restaurants, if I did, I know that many of you would be shaking my hand and giving me a twenty buck donation. (Consider it to be a snowmobile magazine subscription fee).

You guys are amazing.... BUT... it is so much easier for me if you mail your donation to my house (see address to the left in blue bar), or if you send it by PayPal (top of blue bar). Have had nothing come in for two weeks. Thanks so much.

Nicole from the BISTRO ST ZENON STEAK HOUSE has offered me her sled for one day to go out and take photos tomorrow. I am doing it, even though my knee is screwed. The trails are just too perfect right now. Today I have to go visit my Momma Zen, cause I only have one of those!

Be good dear reader, more good stuff on the way from your pal in St-Zenon.

A short note of THANKS to the CAISSE POPULAIRE ( our local bank) for their support, good will, and commitment to ZW, In particular, Sophie! Remember, you can always exchange your US cash at a respectable rate in the Caisse Pop right here in St-Zenon.

CHEERS!

Best Surf and Turf in Town!

FEB. 24 2003 8 AM

David Lavoie from NH called last night and told me they rode 445 miles yesterday (yes I said miles) through the snowstorm, all the way to Senneterre to Balbuzzard Inn. 445 miles!

They ran out of gas a few times and had to double back, inspite of their "Tour Buddy" extra gas tanks. Trails were unbelievable with 18 inches of deep fresh snow thorough Parent Clova and up to Senneterre. They left St-Zenon at 5:30 Am, and arrived there at 8 PM. More on this treck tomorrow.

Sunny here and -20C. We got a foot of snow in all, and the trails will be insane all week!

Maps of Senneterre etc here

Trail Conditions here

Donate to Zen here

FEB 23 6 PM
Been snowing for 24 hours now, and we have 10 inches so far. This audio track is from the lake last night at the Refuge drag strip, where NH Dave tried out his new engine that can do 146 mph on ashfalt!

FEB 23rd 2003
St-Zenon: Crazy Al's gonna need his snowblower this morning. I guess that's all he had to do, was threaten to sell it, and the snow God's responded! I am stunned and proud to announce that we have seven inches of fresh, granular snow, the best trail snow you could possibly order up.

It is - 10C and still snowing steadily. The groomers are all out working the 1,000 kilometers of trails in the St-Zenon area. The trails are going to stay awesome till April.

Trail Conditions Here

Accommodations Here

TAMCO SNOWBLOWER FOR SALE
Crazy Al is selling his Tamco snowblower, has only 75 hours, just spent 1,500. on tune up. 3 cylinder, 63 hp Detroit Deisel engine runs the hydrolics. 8 feet wide. Paid 20,000 cnd, selling for 13,000 cnd. Call 450-884-5050 ask for Carole (speaks English). or e-mail HERE. Or call Zen 450-884-1818. I can translate for him. They do not make these anymore. This will sell quick, as we have about 50 readers who do snow removal. Call now!

FEB 22, 2003

Only a dusting of snow so far this week. So much for the weatherman's accuracy. Yesterday they said we'll have 25cm of new snow in Montreal, today they say it will be 15 cm. They say we will get less snow than Montreal, and that the snow will come this afternoon and tonight. Yeah. We'll see. 15cm means 6 inches. Less up here means 4 inches? We shall see.

The weather station says we just haven't had the snow dumps this year. No storms at all, just an inch or two here and there. Meanwhile, in the US you get one foot per week.

The difference is, of course, that we take those few inches and groom them into amazing trails, and the steady cold preserves them. Still we need more snow if we want our trails to last till April.

Have you tried out the polls? There are about six different ones in all.

Friday FEB. 21,2003

8AM: St-Zenon is - 7C and snowing lightly. Snow coming Saturday and Sunday, as much as 25 cm (10") in Montreal, a little bit less up here.

Temperatures are comfortable at -10C on average, and trails are groomed. This is a good time to bring up the wife who doesn't like - 30 and -40C. Will be an excellent weekend on the trails.

We have been watching the stream of weekend warriors drive past the Zen Shack.

New Hampshire Dave and Glenn are heading back up for another week long attempt at conquering the upper country treck. More updates from this team starting Sunday.

Thanks to Jim Duddy for a generous gift, and better yet, some good fund raising strategy. He's heading up soon, and we will be batting around some ideas, and enjoying a hearty meal at the Bistro or at Real's.

Have a great day folks! zw

Good Food Here
Visit Our Sponsors Here
Quebec Snowmobile Laws Here

Thursday Night. FEB 20, 2003

We got gypped on the snow, total of 1 or 2 inches. supposed to snow over the next few days, I will believe it when I see it, but lets pray. Trails still great all the way to Laval south, and Parent to the north!

Spent the day with Mom in Montreal, setting her up on e-mail! WOW is she excited! She gets to read Zenwaiter now! She's a pretty bright cookie, so she'll learn quick, starting from scratch. Mom is an artist and writes poetry and has even written three books over the years... Philosophy, Science, and Psychology is her bag. I started calling her Momma Zen!

You gotta love your Mom, you only have one, and when she's gone, well, then it's too late.

Got a ton of mail today, the best letter of the day is here on the Mail Page... worth having a look. Night all. zw

PS: Why are you guys afraid to click a radio button on the Zen Poll? Believe me, they can't get you for that! It is 100% safe. Remember, you have to get INTO the INTERNET mind set...

It is not like television where you just stare at a box... no no no... It's about inter-activity. It about sharing your thoughts and opinions with others who have a similar interst.. so, get with it! Use the Poll thing, it's neat! See how your opinion stacks up to the other readers. zen

MAIL PAGE

Wed FEB. 19 2003
-9C this morning with an inch of fresh heavy snow, a good start. More snow coming today and cooling to - 15C, then no change till Friday, when it will snow again. Saturday and Sunday sunny and - 17C.

John and his son John from Long Island, spend several days
at the Motel M with Bruno. "We would never stay
anywhere else! Been coming up for 5 years."

NEW POLLS
On the left is a reader poll. Please vote on this poll so that I can direct this web site more accurately towards your needs. It costs nothing, and you do not have to give any info at all, and no one will get your information. All it does is give me an indication of what you are feeling about our web site! Thanks alot. zw

'KING CAT' IS BACK

Just got a call from Allen at King Cat Motor Sports in PA, he will be bringing up his wife and friends in a few days, and I finally get to meet him over one of Real Masse's juicy steaks!

Allen has stayed with Real and his family for about ten years and wouldn't think about staying anywhere else. Allen has been a supporter of Zenwaiter for three years now, and we appreciate his generosity.

If you need an Arctic Cat snowmobile, please call Allen at 814-364-3704 for prices and availability. If it's an Arctic Cat, Allen can help you find the model you need, at the best price.

'POP UPS' GONE

Great news, I removed all the pesky ads and pop ups from the 2 bulletin boards and from the Zen's Free Classified ads!. It cost a few bucks, but it is well worth it.

A GREAT YEAR

We are experiencing an excellent winter tourist season in Canada. In Ontario and Quebec alone, this segment of tourism business means 140 million in business. Last winter, the impact of the warm winter was devastating for hundreds of motels, restaurants and tour operators, but this year we are back on track with a great traditional Canadian winter.

St-Gabriel Racing March 8 & 9

The sanctioned St-Gabriel Super Snow Cross in happening again this year on the March 8 and 9. Call Gaetan Gravel for more info, 450-835-7471. It will be two days of all amateur racing, and you are invited to participate!

Classes of events include everything from Pro stock 0 to 500 CC to Children 120 CC and Women (Dames) Stock 0 - 600 CC. Bring the family and race. St. Gabriel is a short ride from St-Zenon.

Click this banner for more info (In French).

PS: Peewee the plumber got the pump going again, he had to thaw the line out. I checked in the well, still very little water in it. I couldn't keep the water running to avoid freezing, because there wasn't enough water, a catch 22. The temperatures are back to normal now, so we should be okay for a spell. zw

REAL MASSE'S WORLD

ZEN'S FREE CLASSIFIEDS

CURRENT TRAIL CONDITIONS

Tuesday FEB 18, 2003

Temps reached -2 C this afternoon, currently - 12 at 9 PM Tuesday.

For those of you that have not ever gone to read the great trail reports on the Trail Conditions Discussion Board, here is a sample of great writing!

BY BURT

"Just came back Saturday. Rode from Tuesday 2/11 to Friday 2/14. Trails were the best I have seen in 15 years of riding in Quebec.

We rode from Ste. Agathe to St. Come through St. Marguerite and back through Notre Dame. Great. Wednesday we rode from Ste. Agathe and stayed in Auberge du Lac Toreau. Trails great and the hotel was excellent. The food superb and the prices very reasonable by U S standards.

We traveled thru St. Michel, thru the park and Macaza to Mont Laurier . Trails couldn't have been better. We stayed at the Senateur in Mont Laurier, hospitality was top notch.

Back to Ste. Agathe via Devils Mountain, perfect trails, and Windigo Falls. Lunch in Ferme Nueve and we didn't see another sled all the way to the Linear Park on newly groomed trails.

The ride the rest of the way to Ste Agathe on the track was fast and smooth all the way. Coldest I ever rode in -38 F to -10 F. The only day above 0 was Wednesday. Riding during the week is great, no traffic and the trails are the best. Burt "

Thank you Burt for sharing this excellent report with all our readers. zen.

Trail Conditions Bulletin Board

Monday Morning FEB. 17, 2003

It is -30C again. Sky is clear and sunny at7:30AM. Trails are very good to excellent in the region.

Two weeks left in this month, then four in March equals only 6 weeks left in this snowmobile season. We've had a steady flow of Americans and Ontarians, but also plenty of Quebecers this year coming up on day trips, and one nighters.

The web site is finally in pretty good shape, so I am going to back off a little 'cause I am tired. Like any seasonal work, the fatigue can set in and getcha. I'm sure the waitresses, chambermaids, barmaids, and hotel staff are feeling it too.

I haven't had any water in my house for four days. As soon as it warms up. I'll have Peewee the Plumber come over and see if he can jump start the pump. I went to Dentist David's place on Saturday to do some laundry and have a shower, but his water was dead too.

Many people with a surface well in our district have no water now, in the dead of winter. It must be a nightmare for those with children. What a drag. Next summer, I will drill a proper artesian well at the Zen Shack.

I dropped into the Bistro St-Zenon Steak House on Saturday night and the place was just a hummin'. Things are going very well for Lee and Nicky. They have found the recipie for success; their steak house was packed to the rafters and I was glad to see it that way.

Lee has brought a touch of American style eats to St-Zenon, that offers a refreshing contrast to the surrounding Quebecois "cuisine". Don't get me wrong, I can eat cheese covered fries slathered in brown canned gravy with two steaming all dress hot dogs all day long, but once in a while, I need a real meal.

(Please, no mail from the fast food operators! We love you guys too. )

Sunday night

WOW! I got a ton of mail about the audio, thanks guys (and gals). Here is a small sample of the love I recieved this afternoon ! Is it any wonder I keep on with this crazy web site eh???

"Hi Jerry I just got back from snowmobiling in Pa I know you don't want to hear that. don't worry pa does not have the trails you do. It is odd right now it is snowing and the expected accumulations are 8 to 12" and more if you get close to the pa maryland border. My neighbor is out running his snow blower ha ha . the storm is not expected to end until tomorrow. some people have a lot of time to waste. Your audio works good it takes a long time to load (scared the shit out of me because I did not expect it as I had something else on the screen and your site was loading in the background. ) I would say more but wife is whining I don't spend time with her he he thanks for a
great site. Alden PS Tell Al and carol I said hello.

Great Letter Alden! THANKS! I hope you bought the wife something nice for Valentines Day !

Another letter...

"Hey Zen,

Went to Zen comments today and think your audio wave file is great. It is nice to hear all your information. Keep up the great work you do for your area. In fact I just returned from a week up at Le Cabanon and all the trails were great."

Thanks Craig...

Another...

"Hi Zen,
Ten of us are coming up for the first time. We are leaving Mid-night tonight (Feb.16) and staying at one of La Glaciere cabins for 5 days. We are from PA. Thanks for such a fun and informative web site. If I see you up there I'll buy you a beer!
Got to finish packing.
Thanks again,
Tim"

Thanks Tim!

Another letter...

"Hi Zen
My name Steve Yaniak from New Jersey. Your audio file came through nice and clear talk to you soon Planning a trip up there March 1st and will be staying about a week. I check your site daily and think it's great take care and keep warm." \

Thanks Steve!

See, this is just a smattering of the love I get every day from you people! I am adicted to this kind of good vibe man!

I got 20 letters today alone! Thanks soooo much, see you all up here soon. Call me from the Bistro and I can walk up the hill for a coffee while you enjoy a juicy steak!"

In a state of gratitude,

Zen.

Sunday February 16 2003 10 AM

-38F this morning at 7 AM, but it has warmed up to - 32 now. Here is something new. Let's try this. I have embedded an audio file below. See if you can hear my little recording! E-mail me and let me know if it works, and if you think it's a good idea!

Be patient, and allow it to load. zw

(sound controls now at top of this column)

Saturday FEB. 15, 2003

St-Zenon: - 38 this morning and sunny. Dr. C is heading back to New Jersey today after a week of enjoyable riding and relaxing. Talk has gone from the stressful city life, to the sport. He says he has three wives now, his St-Zenon companions. He is the Dr.. He looks after everyone.

Crazy Al strained hi back muscles yesterday and the Dr. (of Chiropractic) is helping him.

The Peter Javick team is back in town. They stayed at the Cabanon, but paid Crazy Al to keep their sleds in his heated garage at the Refuge; they know the tripple won't start in this cold. I would never buy a tripple.

Last night I went to give Bob Petit some company at the radio station while he does his Friday night show. I suggested perhaps that I could do a weekly segment in English, say 4 minutes.

This, I argue, would be a quick shot of information for the American tourists in their trucks, coming up on Friday nights. Bob doesn't think you guys would listen to it, since there are still some English language radio stations up till St-Emily. Beyond that point, there is almost no radio, at least on my car radio, I get only one French language station.. the CBC.

I have an idea for an Internet based Shout Cast Radio program. One which you will be able to access on line only.

Anyways, house bound today with this cold. Will catch up on e-mails. Have a good one. zw

PS: Just spoke with Gary Graus on the phone, he's heading home today. He has been riding the entire St-Zenon area since Monday, 800 miles in all. Seventy miles the first day, then 200 miles a day. His experience was an 8.5 out of ten.

He has been riding our area for years. He went to Manawan, Repo, the village loop, St-Come, the Park (which he said was very nice), and St-Michel. The only trail that was less than very good was the 318 to the Cabanon from St-michel, and that was poor only in spots, but what else is new. One hour of rough trail out of a week aint bad. zw

Bob Petit, a Quebec trail Pioneer.

Trail Conditions

General Discussion

Friday Feb 14, 2003

St-Zenon: -35C this morning, some flurries today, temps slowly warming towards the start of next week, into the -20's C, the high on Tuesday of - 3!

Sexy Ron called from St-Hypolite, said the Park was a little rough past the cafeteria two days ago, and snow was thin through St-Come and south. Dr "C" has been riding for four days and he says the trail is smooth everywhere. We still do need more snow of course, so keep praying.

A good winter so far, for everyone. Theft is down in the area, we don't hear as many stories as last year. Both the riders and the motels have taken more care, and the Police have been active.

When I interviewed them in December, they told me that they had identified one active group, and had shut them down by watching them closely, and the thieves knew that the cops were watching them.

Almost all of our motels have made special efforts this year to reduce theft and it seems to be working.

We still encourage you to be vigilant. Take out the key when you stop for gas or for a quick lunch or the Police will give you a $100. fine! That's right. If they find your key in the ignition, you pay 100. cnd bucks.

Same fine applies for riding without a helmet of course. Why not go and read all the snowmobile laws on this web site? And have a good one.

Snowmobile Laws here

Trail Conditions here

General discussion here

Thursday February 13, 2003

COLD! This morning it is - 40C or - 40 F. Sunny skies, and continuing cold over the next few days. We recieved a dusting of snow yesterday.

TRAILS HERE ARE VERY GOOD...

"I made a post on the "Trail Conditions Bulletin Board"
about the St. Donat, St. Zenon, St. Come, St. Micheal,
St. Agatha areas. In short trails are 10, i don't think they can get any better. Was there Feb. 2 thru Feb. 8.
Everything is Smooth they had 6" to 8" of fresh snow last tuesday with another 1 1/2" later in the week. "

More Trail Conditions here

Wednesday FEB 12 2003 7 AM

Good morning. It is - 20C in St-Zenon. I am off to surprise my Mom with a birthday gift and some flowers for Valentines Day. I have been so busy that I haven't had the chance to drive to Montreal at all for about six weeks, plus the car was broken for a while.

I hope you look after your Mom better than I do.

Have a great day. zw

PS: Do you click on the REFRESH button on your browser every day when you come to read Zenwaiter's comments and the front Index pages? The REFRESH button is located at the top of this screen, above the actual page, and it is represented by two tiny green arrows next to a red X. By clicking it, you will get to view the latest changes. These pages change almost every day for your reading pleasure!

The Zen Den

Lest We Forget

I was thinking about all the men and women out there in the field who cannot be on our snowmobile trails this winter because they are out there defending us from Sadam and Bin Laden.

If you are in the military and are reading this, e-mail me today with a photo if you can, or just a simple e-mail will do. Tell me where you are, and what you are doing (if you are aloud to), and I will do something special for you, to say thanks. It will be a surprise. Click below to send me mail! And... THANK YOU!

Tuesday Night: -25 C... old

Had a good meal at the Sawmill in St-Michel tonight and went un recognized through my entire meal, but when I got up to pay, several tables had readers that wanted to meet me and thank me for my web site.

I met the Klem Clan from Richfield Springs NY. They have been coming up for 16 years and have always stayed at the P'tit Gibier in St-Michel, which they love.

Jessica Klem has been coming up here since she was a year old. She will be three in the spring, and she wanted to touch my big fur hat! What a sweet little kid. She made me flash back the the words of Jesus, (not that I am a good Christian, in fact, I consider myself a more - less backslidden Southern Baptist:) "Unless Ye become like a child, you shall not enter the Kingdom of Heaven" .

Well enough preaching. Here are the pictures from dinner at the Saw Mill.

The riff-raff.

"Old Daddy Klem Bob" with the rest.
Says trails are 9/10 this week.

Waitress Collette with Jessica and Dad.

The I also met Sylvain from the Domaine Lucay in Lachute. He has a snowmobile relay there where you can eat.

I had a good day, and everyone told me the trails are excellent.
Who could ask for more.

zw.

Restauraunts here
Accommodations here

Tuesday Feb 12, 2003

Good afternoon. It was - 34C this morning, and now at 5 pm, it is -20C. Yesterday evening we had violent snow squalls that made driving tough for an hour or so, depositing two inches of dense high quality snow. It was frightening, but faded after a few hours.

Today was cold but beautiful, with lots of sunshine. Sleds are everywhere. Reports have it that the trails are excellent everywhere in our area. At -35C our daily groomed trails are like pool table slate.

I enjoyed a good home made lasagna special for lunch at the Bistro today with Crazy Al, Sweet Nicky, and New Jersey Lee.

We talked about the future of St-Zenon as a continuing hot spot for Snowmobiling in Canada, and Lee shared his plans of building several rooms, each with their own individual heated & locking sled garages.

The support Lee is getting from Bistro Steak House customers on his plan is phenomenal, and we agree. Go for it Lee, we'll back you 100%!

We also talked about future oval racing, and drag racing in St-Zenon. YES! See you all this weekend, the trails are excellent this winter.

Another word of Thanks to Bernard in Shawinigan for his kindness.

See Racing on the Lake Here

See Bernard story in Shawinigan Here

JEEP WORLD DOT COM

Monday Morning February 11, 2003

St-Zenon: - 10C, cloudy bright day.

I had breakfast at the Refuge at 7:30 this morning with DR C and his two buddies who just got in for a week of fun. We booked in the massage therapist for a few visits, to help these tough guys relax.

Life in New Jersey if stressful for professionals. Conversations ran from Watergate, to the coming war in the middle east. By the end of the week, these guys will be talking about sled gas mileage, the excellent trails, and the new sled they wanna get for next year.

Just got a package by UPS from our new friends at Jeep World and they were kind enough to send some promotional stuff, quality stuff. A key chain , a couple of hats, and a great T-shirt. Thanks guys. Unfortunately, you included an invoice, and the custom department of Canada charged me $46. bucks to receive the package. In two weeks I'll probably get a bill from a customs broker in Vancouver for $ 28. bucks for the processing of the package; that happened last time someone sent me a gift.

In future, if any of you out there decide to mail me a gift, please write GIFT on it, and in the slot where they ask you the value, write $2.00. Otherwise I have to pay big on this end. In my economy of scale, 46 bucks is huge. That's a tank of gas! I know that may be hard for some of my readers to fathom, but it's the way I live up here in the bush...as cheaply as possible!

But it's the thought that counts, so thanks Jeep World. If I had the time I'd dress up jeep style, or better yet dress up a local hottie, take her picture, and stick it on the front page! ( I may yet do that; just the thought of is turning me on. I must have cabin fever.)

As things stand now, I am behind big time, dead tired, and have piles of mail to reply to. Ahh, the life of a super star eh?? :) If I promised you a photo and you don't see it, that's why.

Tonight I am going to meet a bunch of guys at Real Masse, and I suppose I will be forced to eat another one of his steaks.

About yesterday...

Yesterday I had the pleasure of touring Bernard's World in Shawinigan South. You know Bernard right? "Bernard is my game, sledding is my game".

Well, true to his monacher, this guy walks the walk, let me tell you. The Motel Safari is designed around the needs of sledders. The main trail is across the highway from his parking lot, he has a big secure locking corral, he has a hot tub to soothe your sore back, and he has a mini car wash to clean your truck, trailer and sleds with a steam washer. In a word, I was impressed.

Did I mention the hot tub foot massage service?
It's free if you're a pretty girl!

Motel Safari has been one of our biggest boosters, and we recommend Bernard as an honest snow reporter. He knows everything snowmobile in his region, and he can be trusted. His wife is a real sweetie too, and helps to make everything work. Oh, to have a partner like that here at the Zen Shack!

Motel Safari photos will appear soon, when I get a minute. If only people would stop calling and coming to the door. I need a helper.

Thanks to everyone of you for reading this today, I hope you get the chance to come up and take in some of our fresh country air and French hospitality. Here is a photo I took this morning of Dr. C from New Jersey. (He's our second biggest contributer of jokes and histerical political comment. He's a riot a minute!)

It's a beautiful day in St-Zenon!

Cheers. zw

Visit Motel Safari in Shawinigan

Reader Mail

Sunday Feb 9th.

The races yesterday were excellent and we had several hundred come out for a fun day.

Today I drove out to the Safari Motel to visit Bernard. I am exhausted, must sleep. I will tell you the story tomorrow. Trails out there are very good, and the motel is super.

Sarurday Morning February 8 2003

St-Zenon: - 16 C. Got down to - 30 last night. Off to help Crazy Al with the races today. Sexy Ron is here taking it easy today. Tomorrow he's teaming up with Wild Bill the errant tour guide, and they're heading off into the great white north. Ron says they're heading out to Monts Vallin and then the Gaspe! Five feet of snow up there. Start here, go everywhere good.

Friday Night Feb. 7th. 11 PM.

St-Zenon: - 20C tonight. Just got back from the St-Zenon Bistro where Sexy Ron discussed carbides and safety with me and Donnie Mallet, of the famous, (or infamous) Ritt Ritt Rock and Roll Team. Lots of sleds outside, and people riding around on our rehabilitated local trails. That snow on Tuesday really helped.

Dave and Glenn rode back from Seneterre, 380 miles? in one day. They will try their long track again sometime soon. Once they got everything going well, the trails in the end, made them come back. They said there was too much snow up there for their kind of riding. "One foot on new snow on a three foot base, but snow that needed to be packed and groomed. By Sunday the trails up in Parent, Clova Altapache etc will be perfect!"

Crazy Al has got the oval track brushed up to the bare ice, and they flooded it for tomorrow's one cylinder races. Eighty machines in all will participate; 40 sleds, 20 quads, and 20 speedway bikes.

If you are up, be sure to stop in at the Bistro St-Zenon Steak House to warm up afterwards, and enjoy the best Surf and Turf in town! I'll be there for sure.

The famous Dr. C. will be up from Elizabeth New Jersey with another MD and a Judge to boot. They'll be spending their first night in a cabin at the Refuge on the lake. The one who snores will quickly be moved out onto the deck in his sleep.

Other than that, a very special thanks to those who have sent in donations to help run this thing. Your timing has been uncanny. You PA people especially.... Thank you.

Also, thanks to all the people who mail in letters and to those that participate in some pretty good debates on the bulletin boards. zw

PS: A special hello to Jenny, wife of the famous Mark Aube. Jenny is working on making the next generation of St-Zenon snowmobilers as we speak. Keep up the good work Jen!

Trail Conditions Board HERE

General talk board HERE

MAIL ROOM HERE

Thursday Morning.

Clear blue skies and - 30C, -20F in St-Zenon. The cat and the dog spent about 30 seconds out there, then wanted back in. The car won't start. I should have plugged it in. Bet you could play marbles on the trails this morning! zw

Wednesday Night Feb. 5 2003

Good evening dear reader! I spent most of the day getting myself to the car dealer and back, and oh what a joy to pay the bill! Why is it that we never learn? Automobiles cost a fortune. That's it, I'm getting a horse, or a donkey, or a camel, or something other than a car one day. Anyways the car is fixed, and I am broke. If it hadn't been the car, it would have been something else.

It got cold tonight... - 22 C right now ( 10 pm) in St-Zenon. This is one of those nights where it feels like -40C. The sky is jet black and full of stars. There is no cloud cover to protect us from the cold.

My driveway has five foot high snow walls all around it tonight, after that snow storm we had. The snow crunches underfoot, and I imagine the trails will be like table tops this weekend.

Dave and Glen are sleeping at "La Belle Villa Motel" tonight in Seneterre. They only managed 150 miles today because Dave's fancy after market suspension lost one of the two bolts that hold it together. They found a shop this evening where they managed to use a blow torch and fix the thing.

Yesterday they rode sixty miles on the road between Parent and Clova to avoid the blinding blizzard. In the process they burnt off their carbides totally, and they were brand new. They also have "Starting Line" brand runners, so they had to get new sliders from the Skidoo dealer, and put them on their Polaris sleds.

"Up here there is a three foot base, and one foot of brand new snow, perfectly groomed. The trails are mint!" This coming from David who is a very hard judge of trails.

Tomorrow morning early, they are heading for Chibougamau, about 300 odd kilometers. We will have another phone report when they arrive... if they arrive. Seems they are having bad luck with the sleds, and yet, I have never seen anyone so fussy on preparation of equipment.

"We also saw a burnt up sled on the side of the one way trail from the Cabanon. When we came up yesterday morning, we saw about fifteen sets of tracks going the wrong way up the one way for about ten miles, then they turned back. There are no signs along the way, there should be a one way arrow every few hundred feet. Somebody is gonna get killed here for sure!"

The ambulance driver told me there were two ambulances sent up to get the injured after the head on crash, but he didn't know how serious it was.

Some people say the One Way is an accident looking for a place to happen; but others love it.

"People should always assume that there may be someone heading the wrong way on that thing, and so they should always stay to the far right on hills and corners just in case." says Dave.

Good advice, and here's some more. Where there is lots of traffic, say like on the weekend, slow down. Wait till you get out a ways before you open her up and hit that top speed of 70 kms!

Cold tonight. Groomers all working, or so I hear. And with all this new snow, we won't be hearing many complaints about the trails this year.

Get up here this weekend, or you'll miss out big time. We have one cylinder racing on Lake St-Louis on Saturday, and the Ice Sculpture Festival close by in St-Come. This may just be the best weekend of the winter!

Tuesday Night

It snowed all day here in St-Zenon and it is still snowing. Six inches so far. Dave and Glenn took off again at 6 AM after rebuilding the tripple last night. Dave just called me from the Tamarack Hotel in Clova. He says that he rode 280 miles today through a snow blizzard. The trails were great.

I called Joyce-Lynn in Parent tonight to see how things are going. They have a foot of new snow and it hasn't quit yet. They are always as cold as us or colder. Joyce says to say HI to everyone, and to tell you that there is a new gas and food pit stop called Kambium on the way into Casey. It is clean, and they have food and gas.

Crazy Al with Joyce-Lynn and her husband Raoul
last winter in beautiful downtown Parent!

Find Joyce-Lynn's number HERE.

This weekend the trails here will be perfect, we are getting the snow we needed. It should all be groomed up nice for the weekend here in St-Zenon. Thank God. See you soon. zw

Tuesday February 4th, 2003

St-Zenon: Snowing and - 7C today, two inches so far. Looks like a real storm has begun. David and Glenn blew a cylinder up at Lac Chateuvert near Repos. They said local trails were rough, but once over the dam, the freshly groomed trail was excellent. They were the only ones on it. More soon.

Monday February 3, 2003

St-Zenon: - 16 C today with brilliant blue sky and sunshine. We didn't get any snow yet, but they say 15 cm is on the way with temps around -15 C all week. Dave and Glenn have left for a two thousand mile treck, photos in eight days.

SATURDAY: BISTRO ST-ZENON: FULL UP FOR LUNCH

What a weekend; sleds everywhere. At one point on Saturday afternoon, there must have been 60 sleds in the parking lot at the Bistro. Every gas station had half a dozen sleds gassing up.

The whole area is buzzing. We must be doing something right here eh? Or is it just that lady luck that has given us a good winter?

All the riders I spoke to on the street were very happy and having a good time. "We're havin' a ball in St-Zenon."

SUNDAY: Marc from MASS with friends get the
VIP treatment from the ever lovely Anne at the BISTRO.

These three pals, rode up from St-Donat to spent the night at the Repos, survived a bear attack in the cabin, and met me on Sunday in St-Zenon on their way home. Marc has a vivid imagination. He mistook the Repo's big dog for a bear. After, he had to change into a clean pair of boxers. His brave friends slept through the whole thing.

Friday night, the Real Masse parking lot was jammed . Bob Petit, Crazy Al, Gilles Huet, Real Masse, and Zenwaiter recorded another edition of Bon Weekend LaNaudiere, live on location in the restaurant. We had a ball.

FRIDAY: Gilles Huet, Manager of Real Masse,
tells the audience about everything new at
Real Masse's winter paradise on Bob's Show.

Bob has been a sports celebrity in Quebec for twenty years, and hosts a weekly radio shows in French which highlights all the snowmobile activities in the Lanaudiere region.

A special thanks to Bob Petit for his consistent support of ZW.

On a personal note, the water is flowing again in the Zen Shack thanks to PeeWee the plumber. Things are looking up. The car will be fixed by Tuesday.

Behind every groomer, there is a silver trail. eh?

INDEX

Sunday Feb 2

St-Zenon: -8C this morning with blues skies and some cirrus clouds. Colder temps on the way. Calling for snow today and Monday. Let's keep praying for snow.

Next Saturday morning at 11 AM the Oval racing will begin on Lake St-Louis, next to the municipal property on the south end of the lake where the big welcome to St-Zenon sign stands. It should be a fun time.

Let's all participate to encourage Motor Man Martin. This may be the first of many events. He says he is expecting 1,000 to 1,500 spectators. Let's not disappoint him.

There will be 20 speedway bikes racing on the ice, followed by twenty four wheel racers, and then forty one cylinder sleds. Have you seen these things? I was expecting old 1960 style Skidoos... but I was way off!

This is Motor Man Martin, owner of Petit Moteur Martin,
showing off his one cylinder entry for Saturday in St-Zenon.

INDEX

Servers of the Week!

Saturday Feb 1

St-Zenon: Had a great steak dinner at Real Masse, then did the radio show live with Bob Petit, Real, and Crazy AL. It was excellent, but I am so tired I must sleep.

Tired, falling behind on e-mail.

Trails great. Season very good. Get up here.

January 2003 Archives Here.

DEC 31 7:28 PM

As I sit here alone, dog on my right cat to my left, I have to ask myself one simple question...

Why am I sitting here thinking of you and your family, out there in New York, or in PA, or in MASS or CT. or PA, or NJ. , with your shiney new sled in the garage, dying to find a great snowmobile trail where you can ride?

Reflecting on the year that just passed us by, I realize that I must really love this work, else wise, I would not be here on New Year's Eve in front of my computer... working in this sometimes hostile territory, and that speaks a foreign tongue; a place where some of the local magi would like to make me disappear altogether.

Well, it may be because of the little things, like the smiles I saw this morning on the faces of that Indiana family who drove 20 hours to ride our trails, especially those of the children.

And it could be because of those seven long distance calls I got today from Ohio, New York, Connecticut, Chicago Illinois and beyond to thank me for "a great web site".

That naive hope that there is possibly a bit less injustice in the snowmobile world because of my work, is yet another.

The recognition I get from sleders all across eastern Canada and the US in so many forms such as cards, gifts, e-mail's, and the generous cash donations, are another reason I do this.

The opportunity to meet so many dynamic and successful sports-minded individuals is another.

But most of all, I do this work, because you make me feel appreciated in an often unappreciative world, and for that, I thank you, and look forward to another year of Zenwaiter.com.

To the many who have shared resources and contributed to my work, I extend my sincerest gratitude. This will be our fourth winter working the trails together, and you have reason to be proud.

"May God Richly Bless You"

Happy New Year to You All

Your Canadian Friend in the big snowy north country,

DEC 31 6 PM
St-Zenon: Ice pellets fell for three hours this morning, and then some corn snow. Currently - 2C and colder tomorrow with snow coming Friday.

: Meet the Indiana Guy that just drove 20 hours to get here with his family... .TODAY'S PHOTOS

I spoke with four or five Americans on the phone today, and encouraged them to come up.

NEW
We have built a trail condition bgulletin board, and I hope you will all use it to your benefit.

Dec 31 2002 8AM
St-Zenon; Good morning. It is -7C and misty. Ice pellets falling very lightly. These dense ice bits are heavy are very good for the trail. Weatherman calling for snow Friday Saturday and Sunday! Should be a good weekend.

Hey, good news! Check out our new Trail Conditions Board!
HERE

Dec 30 10 pm

St. Zenon; The weatherman has decided that we will be getting snow in the morning, and the rain will be down around Montreal. I think he may be right on this, more in the morning.

Tom B from Mass and Brian J from N.J. tried to ride up the 33 to the Manawan town, they told me it was closed for some logging until Jan 5th??

They found another less traveled route and had a great lunch at the Repos. They say they are having the time of their lives.

They are not fast riders like many are, CAUSE THEY"RE OLD LIKE ME! They like to stop and soak in the white vistas, take photos, and they say they enjoy seeing all the white rabbits running around.

They stopped at the cafeteria in the park and had slow fast food. I told them it is now government run! They are probably just getting the hang of things, they just opened.

But yes, they are enjoying the trails, and even did some off trail riding in places on some logging roads. They have mountain sleds.

They say they will be back to our area again, they are very satisfied.

Currently - 15 C. 10 pm

DEC 30, 2002

St-Zenon: Good morning! Another lovely day, bright sunshine, and -25C or -12 F. It is cold and bright.

Weatherman is calling for some freezing rain Tuesday morning, followed by a drop in temperature in the afternoon, and light snow off and on through the end of the week with temps around -10C. Trails should hold up through this mild morning with no problems, if, in fact, it actually does get mild.

Yesterday was a very busy day for me, ending in a delicious dinner invitation at one of the condos in the Motel M in St-Michel. The twenty or so folks from Delaware fed me a home made pot roast dinner, complete with pumpkin pie for desert!

There are 86 snowmobiles registered in the state of Delaware, which means that a third of them were here this week! They are staying through new years and are having quite a fun time. PHOTOS HERE.

Please send me your photos of snowmobiling through the holidays, wherever you went. I'd love to share them with everyone. My family photos are HERE.

I want to wish you all a Happy New Year.

Need Help?
Bulletin Board
Main Menu
Accommodations

Need a room? Call me. 450-884-1818

DEC 29, 2 PM
Cold today and snowing which is excellent. I drove around and spoke to many of you sleders this morning, and you should go see this page to view the photos.

Everyone is telling me that the trails are very good to excellent in St-Zenon, almost all of the 1,000 kms of groomed trail.

The towns are full of activity, and there are sleds everywhere I look in the vicinity. Trailers, sleds, snowmobilers, it's just like in a dream, and on top of all that, we are getting snow.

This job of mine just got a lot easier. Send your donations anyway, I need the money! :)

All jokes aside, if you appreciate this web site, tell someone else about it, and be sure to tell the Motels and Restaurants where you stay, that they should become a sponsor. Thanks.
zw

today
yesterday
friday

DEC 28 9 AM
Still - 8C this morning. Getting tougher to find a room, but there are still rooms around. Call me if you need help finding one. 450-884-1818.

Quebec weather in general, Sunday and Monday getting a bit colder, then milder Tuesday and Wed with 5 to 10 cm of snow, and or some rain in some areas. Check out the forecast here.

Looking good for new years riding.

Reminder: If you have pledged a donation to this web site, pls click on the pay pal logo above, where you can easily set up an account and send a donation.

Our e-mail is zenwaiter@canada.com . Our mailing address is 5831 Chemin Brassard, St-Zenon, QC, CANADA, J0K 3N0. Please Make checks out to" Zenwaiter."

If you want to become a sponsor, click here. Thanks. zw

Check out these ZW Sponsors for available snowmobile rooms.

Real Masse
The New Refuge
Motel "M"
Motel Sportif

Go HERE for more accommodations.

DEC 27th 9 PM

St-Zenon; Last night - 25 C. Currently - 8C.

Every where I went today, I saw sleds fueling up and snowmobile trailers rolling past. The Bistro is packed tonight, and the St-Louis is a rockin'.

So the party is on no doubt, in many Quebec communities where there is good snow, but let's not forget to take it easy out there.

It's the start of the season, and accidents can happen to anyone. Respect the speed limit, and be aware that early season trails, though smooth, can have the occasional rock.

Also remember that you are not alone on the trails, and stay right.

I spent the day on the Lake in front of the Refuge. Go have a look, then, get up here for great trails! HERE

DEC 26th 10 PM

Just got back from Belleville and Tillsonberg Ontario. It snowed 3 inches xmas day. Here in St-Zenon we got bout 5 inches over the past few days, and reports say the trails are good to very good. They tell me the groomers are out every day.

It has been cold here, currently - 14C. The Glaciere has plenty of trailers and trucks parked out front. The Bistro Steak house and the St-Louis Hotel/Motel have about 20 sleds parked out front of each. Looks like the season is well under way and people are having a blast in St-Zenon and St-Michel!

Go see Sarah's newest report HERE.

zen

Saturday DEC 21st, 2002

St-Zenon: Half an inch of snow this morning and -2C. We did get some rain yesterday, and often, a little rain actually improves the trail base. They are calling for more snow today and through Christmas day. That sets up some good riding for us here between Christmas and New Years.

More weather here.

I want to wish you all a good Christmas and a happy new year. Thanks for all the support you have shown me over the past year, both for the donations, and for those businesses that have become sponsors.

This is the fourth winter that ZW has brought you helpful information. Time flies when you're havin' fun eh?

I have to look after Mom a little over the next few days, so I may not have time to write much in this spot. I am going to make sure that she gets the opportunity to see some of her grandchildren, especially her three year old grand daughter that she has never met. I guess that is what Christmas is all about.

I won't see my two boys this Christmas, although the thought of going to Santa Barbara is tempting sometimes! I'd have to win the lottery first. :)

Over Christmas, do me a favour? Try to use our Bulletin Board, if you haven't already. It can be fun and informing. I know that there are pop up ads that appear on the screen after you close the window and it's a pain, but hey, it's a free board! So, have a good one my friends!

PS: If you are desperate to find a last minute room during Xmas, why not call Christelle at the SPORTIF, they have 16 rooms, and because they are fairly new here, they are not yet booked up. 450-833-5896. Or go see our Accommodations page HERE.

Main Menu HERE

God Bless
zw

Friday 4 pm

"Text Forecast from Environment Canada

Parc du Mont-Tremblant - Saint-Michel-des-Saints: Issued 03:45 PM est Friday 20 December 2002

Tonight..Rain ending this evening. Cloudy later on with 70% probability of flurries. Low near minus 3. Winds southwesterly 15 to 30 km/h.

Saturday..Intermittent snow. Accumulation near 5 cm. High near minus 1. Winds southwesterly 20 to 40 km/h.

Sunday..Snow. Low near minus 5. High near minus 2.

Monday..Snow. Low near minus 7. High near minus 4.

Tuesday..Snow. Low near minus 12. High near minus 8.

Normals for the period..Low minus 17. High minus 7. "

Friday 8:30 am

St-Zenon weather: Forecast says some freezing rain today, chance of flurries Sat and Sunday, snow for Monday through Wednesday! Currently -1C and overcast.

I had a visit from Bernard from Shawinigan yesterday. He will be e-mailing us trail conditions from time to time from his region. If you would like to send in your club's trail conditions, feel free!
Or simply go and place your trail reports on our Bulletin Board. HERE.

Crazy Al's new chalet at the Refuge is a few days from completion. It is very nice. See New Photos HERE.

Thursday 4 pm

In St-Zenon: The temp has risen to -1C. The weatherman says we will have rain or snow in this area tomorrow. We'll take the snow thank you very much! Saturday they are calling for some snow. Colder again on Sunday.

Every year, many of our hotels and motels renovate to keep you comfortable in the winter months. Go see the renovations which are 99% complete in the Glaciere Motel. HERE.
zw.

Wed Night
Thank you for all the visits to the web site!! We have over 1,400 for the day, which means we will break the record of 1384 of last week.

Today I saw the trails first hand. WOW. Nice local trails, and many riders told me they got excellent conditions everywhere thanks to the grooming of the local three clubs, now called "The Snowmobile Kingdom". Unbelievable for this time of year.

Remember I spoke about the Colorado low a few days ago? Well it has hit hard in Saskatchewan and Manitoba. They got 30 to 40 cm of snow. The system is heading our way. Looks like a crap shoot to me. Freezing rain tonight for NE Ontario and NW Quebec turning into rain tomorrow.

They are not clear about our region, but looking at the entire picture, I estimate Thursday will get a little milder, and then Friday, I predict 1 feet of snow for St-Zenon! Why not. The weather man says it could be rain, snow or freezing rain. Saturday they call for a little snow. Sunday colder and sunny.

Currently - 18C. Sky is clear.

Those that rode today got spoiled big time. GO SEE

Have a great evening. If you like our Web site, why not send it to just one person tonight in an e-mail. That will help ZW alot! And pray for snow! Thanks friends. zw.

PS: Cudos to the local club, hell of a job on the grooming boys!
(and no... I'm not just saying that, I mean it.)

Wednesday DEC 18th
Good morning loyal reader. I am going for a walk up to the Casse Croute at the top of the hill. I need exercise, I have been working too much again! It is -25 C or -12F, and the sun is up. Another true winter day. Outside you can hear the odd sled whining in the woods, off in the distance. zw

Tuesday Night, in St. Zenon
I just got a trail report from Eric who called in from the Refuge.

" We rode 115 miles today and the trails were awesome. We hit it just right I guess, everywhere we went the trails were groomed perfectly. We rode from the Refuge to Koubeks, it was excellent. Park Mastigouche was excellent. No rocks, and smooth. We rode 55 to 60 mph everywhere. There is 2 and a half feet of snow in Park Mastigouche. I am a Quebecor, and have been riding this area for 12 years..."

Today was very very cold, so no doubt the freshly groomed trails were hard as a rock. A perfect example of someone who took the chance, came up, and was rewarded with a great ride.

Disclaimer

Please remember, that the trail report above, is only the opinion of one rider, and not the opinion of ZW. ZW has no opinion whatsoever on the trails of St-Zenon, or on any other trails. We just report what we can from riders that call in or e-mail in. We do our best to provide a balanced view of the reports we get. For raw data, go see what people are saying on the Bulletin Board. As for the weather, we call it is we see it here in St-Zenon, and listen to the French media to stay informed.
HERE

Tuesday Dec. 17

In St-Zenon:
Ccccold this morning, at 7 at, it was -25C or -12F. Ouch. I could hear my foundation cracking from time to time during the night. The St-Zenon Bistro and Steak House has added their listing on the RESTAURANT page, in support of this web site. Thank you Lee and Nicole. See Photo HERE.

Shawinigan & Lac St-Jean:
Bernard from the Motel Safari says the trails are pretty good this morning in Shawinigan. He called this morning to recommend a friend of his in Lac St-Jean. A quaint Motel in the woods at the end of a private trail with nine rooms and his own groomer. This is what is known as a jewel in the hay stack! I am mixing metaphors again. Go see this rustic Inn HERE. This fellow has worked very hard to build nine rooms and a restaurant. No doubt some of you have already stayed there on some cold snowy night. It is a 260 mile ride straight north of Shawinigan.

Have some news to share about your club or motel? Write us today at zenwaiter@canada.com Don't be shy!

Monday Dec 16 2002

SNOWING and cold this morning in St-Zenon Quebec! After a few mild days on the weekend, we are back to cold weather. We have one inch of new snow so far, and if it keeps up, it will be very very good. Find the forecasts on our Weather Page.

But we are not the only area with snow in Canada. One foot in Newfoundland, and 43 cm in the Gaspe. Moncton New Brunswick got 54 cm (20 inches!) For more trail conditions go HERE.

Some areas do not know what to do with all this snow! When St-Zenon gets a few inches, our groomers can do miracles. Much of the reason for this is, that we have built the trails smooth to begin with, and with a good hard base, you don't need as much snow. When we get more snow, things just get amazing.

Bernard called from the Safari Motel in Shawinigan, and he tells me it is snowing like crazy there this morning as well. He says the groomers have been out a couple of times on 400 miles of groomed trails. Give him a call for the details. He was born in Ontario (so he speaks good English) and is a good buddy of New England Bob, the snowmobile Tour guide.

I spoke with Gaetan Gravel, President of the St-Gabriel-de-Brandon snowmobile club. His comments are HERE.

Dec 15th 2002
PHOTOS HERE

Sunday morning in St.Zenon Quebec, and the cold weather has returned after a mild Saturday. Currently - 5C and should be colder tomorrow.

Bathurst New Brunswick got 32 cm of new snow yesterday and today... so far, the storm still continues. We did not get any snow from this system yet.

Ther weatherman says there is a Colorado low is starting, which can bring up to 30cm to Quebec next week. Let's hope so! That would be perfect. for Xmas riding.

Two days ago the groomer went all the way up to the Repos for the first time. The first trip is always alot of work, stopping to remove branches and rocks. It will harden up now into a fabulous base, and then soon, we will be getting a good dump of a foot or so (right?), and then, the groomers will sculpt another perfect St-Zenon trail.

Yesterday I had the chance to visit with Lulu and his lovely wife at Glenn's place for coffee. The famous ex-owners of Lulu Steak House (Now known as the Bistro) was in tip top form! Retirement seems to agree with the well known area couple.

In the afternoon, New Hampshire Dave and Glenn accompanied me to the Refuge, where we witnessed all the work being done at the Refuge. The ceramic tile, the hot tub, the new wood stove, the kitchen, everything looked fabulous. They will be done the main work in about a week. I will take photos then to show you.

As evening descended, the boys treated me to a very nice meal at the Sawmill in St-Michel-des-Saints. Waitress Maryse took good care of us, in spite our twisted sense of humour.

The boys went out riding this morning to the dam. They say that trails are good for early season. Hopefully we'll get some snow this week to welcome all of you who will be coming up next week! Look fwd to seeing you all!

PHOTOS HERE

Sat DEC 14th 2002

Good morning! -3C today at 8:30 am in St-Zenon Quebec. We got an inch of the white stuff last night.

I dropped in for coffee at the St-Zenon Bistro Steak House last night and had a good long chat with Lee and Nicky. The restaurant is doing very well, and they still have the same great chef, Rejean to make the surf and turf just right.

They have built onto the back to make the kitchen even bigger, and Lee's collection of antique snowmobiles has increased to about a dozen. The old sleds are parked all around the restaurant, and some of the smaller ones are actually hanging on the walls!

Big David is up from Peterborough New Hampshire with his buddy Glenn. They have been coming up here for 25 years, and this is their second trip already. They tell me the riding is great for this time of year.

At midnight, I could hear the whine of sleds all around my house. The season has begun.

Weatherman is calling for a snowstorm starting in the afternoon, with 15 to 15 cm of new snow in the Gaspe, Perce, and Baie des Chaleurs. also, 25 cm expected in Rimouski. In general, temps will remain -2 to -5 all over Quebec.

See you this weekend in Quebec eh?
Visit our Bulletin Board HERE.

DEC 13th

Talked to Bob Petit last night, he rode 176 kms yesterday (about 100 miles). Go read his new report. HERE.

This morning in St-Zenon it is - 3C, and the weather man says -2C for Saturday with some wind, colder by Monday with a cold air mass dropping from the arctic. 5 - 10 cm of snow here and there. Comfortable for early season riding.

In the Nymph Valley Restaurant on main street of St. Zenon, I spoke with four Americans who own a house in the village and have been coming here for 25 years.

Don B. of Williston Vermont told me they have been doing a lot of riding,.. "We followed the groomer yesterday up to the REPOS and it was great! For this time of year, it is very very good Zen."

I would have taken a photo of the rat pack, but didn't have my camera. The 'hamburger steak' was excellent, and Michel the chef was quite busy. "We always eat here when we come up" added Don. Where to eat in St. Zenon? HERE.

DEC 12

1273 people came to read our web site yesterday! Thank you to each and every one of you that contributes! Why not go to our bulletin board to find out who's saying what! HERE.

Got a question? Here.

Search for something in particular? Here.

A big thank you today to King Kat for his $200. pledge to Zenwaiter's web site. If you live in State College, be sure to thank him. Next July I may be back there to help out as a volounteer in the PA 4th Fest again! What a show that was.

Cold here in St. Zenon this morning, and the riding is good for early season riding. Still no update from the local club.

Trails are open in Monts Valin, Chapais, St. Donat, and other places, go see.. HERE.

Again today, we had two more requests for information from Ontario riders who have never riden in Quebec, but would like to! I was born in Markham Ontario, and raised in Thornhill. I spent every summer of my youth at the cottage in Muskoka.

Why not tell one friend about our web site today. Or, why not sign up for the free newsletter (which has not been issued for months, I know I know!) HERE

Thanks, zw.

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Wed Dec 11 2002

As you can see, the front page of the web site exploded. No sweat. Now you're simply going to have to go to the menu page more often.

This web site is really tough to keep running smooth because of the sheer amount of information and pages. If I didn't add to it every day there would be no problem.

Don't forget to 'reload' your browser every time you view a page, because they change daily.

The local club has not provided any local information to us for the St-Zenon, St-Michel des Saints, Glaciere territory trails yet. The new combined club is now called "Snowmobile Country".
It's a great name and an incredible combined area of over 1,000 groomed trails. I guess they are still getting organized on their pr committee.

Dave from New Hampshire says he rode here Sunday and Monday. He says you can ride to St. Donat on pretty good trails through the park, and the one way to the dam is excellent.
The trail out to Matawin has a six mile bare patch where there is logging. Sunday, Quebecers were riding alot, but on Monday, there was virtually no traffic at all.

We are getting news from other clubs and we will pass it on to you as the season progresses.

Sarah in St. Donat says the trails are groomed up there, and are good for early season conditions.

Bernard of the Safari Motel says there are good trails in Shawinigan. Call him anytime for local info.

Monts Valin is open and groomed, about 100 miles of trails around the base of the mountains.

If you have been riding, please be sure to go and post your trail conditions and news on our bulletin board.

If you are a snowmobile club member (anywhere) and would like to write a column for our web site like Sarah in St-Donat, simply e-mail us below, and tell us all about it!

Thanks for your kind support!

Main Menu

Canada has some of the best snowmobile trails in the world. In Quebec Canada, we have thousands of miles of beautiful snowmobiling available to American, Ontario, New Brunswick and Nova Scotian snowmobilers.

American snowmobilers arrive daily from New Hampshipe, Ne York, Pennsylvania, Maine, Massachusetts Vermont, Connecticut, and even Indianna! Snowmibling in Canada is the best!

On this site, you'll find everything you need to organize your snowmobile holidays, snowmobile vacation, or snowmobiling trip in Quebec Canada.

Enjoy snowmobiling in Quebec!

Canada has some of the best snowmobile trails in the world. In Quebec Canada, we have thousands of miles of beautiful snowmobiling available to American, Ontario, New Brunswick and Nova Scotian snowmobilers.

American snowmobilers arrive daily from New Hampshipe, Ne York, Pennsylvania, Maine, Massachusetts Vermont, Connecticut, and even Indianna! Snowmibling in Canada is the best!

On this site, you'll find everything you need to organize your snowmobile holidays, snowmobile vacation, or snowmobiling trip in Quebec Canada.

Enjoy snowmobiling in Quebec!

American snowmobilers arrive daily from New Hampshipe, Ne York, Pennsylvania, Maine, Massachusetts Vermont, Connecticut, and even Indianna! Snowmibling in Canada is the best!

On this site, you'll find everything you need to organize your snowmobile holidays, snowmobile vacation, or snowmobiling trip in Quebec Canada.

Enjoy snowmobiling in Quebec!

Canada has some of the best snowmobile trails in the world. In Quebec Canada, we have thousands of miles of beautiful snowmobiling available to American, Ontario, New Brunswick and Nova Scotian snowmobilers.

American snowmobilers arrive daily from New Hampshipe, Ne York, Pennsylvania, Maine, Massachusetts Vermont, Connecticut, and even Indianna! Snowmibling in Canada is the best!

On this site, you'll find everything you need to organize your snowmobile holidays, snowmobile vacation, or snowmobiling trip in Quebec Canada.

Enjoy snowmobiling in Quebec!