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Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Minutes of 2010 National Skate Patrol Meeting

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

On July 26, 11 skate American River Parkway toward Rio Linda!

Eleven skaters showed up for the Monday Night Skate on July 26: Alice, Amon, Cynthia, Dayle, Gordon, Gus, Morgan, Robin, Russell, Wendy, and myself. Because of his blisters, Amon was on a bicycle. Thanks to the Internet, Robin, a new skater joined us and did quite well. We had quite a discussion before we started skating. We fina.ly reached a consensus to skate toward Rio Linda, which we have not done for some time. Gordon did a great job in leading and coordinating us. We skated north through Old Sacramento onto the American River Parkway via Dave's Bridge. For an overview of this skate, see the YouTube video video linked to on the left.

On the American River Parkway we skated north toward the Discovery Park Bridge. When we got to the Discovery Park Bridge, we skated into Discovery Park. To see how much fun this can be, see the YouTube video linked to above on the right.

e skated the American River Parkway from Discovery Park till we reached the trail north to Rio Linda (near Del Paso Boulevard). We then started to skate toward Rio Linda. Some skated several miles north, some skated much less. As coordinated by Gordon, Alice and others, when we again got back together at the beginning of the Rio Linda Trail, we returned to 3rd and S via the C Street near 20th Street exit from the American River Parkway.

A lot of our return was by skating south on 19th Street.

I estimate that we skated 8 to 14 miles. After the skate, 5 of us enjoyed food, drink, and conversation at Ernesto's, since Vallejos's closed at 9:00. What great exercise, and conversation too!

Bernie

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Minutes of 2010 National Skate Patrol Meeting

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

On July 19, 5 skate to and from the California State Fair!

5 skaters showed up for the Monday Night Skate on July 19: Alice, Dayle, Gus, Steve, and myself. As suggested by Gus, we decided to skate to the State Fair. Alice recommend that we skate through town to reduce the distance. Steve looked the route up on a map. Then, after a little more discussion, he and Alice led us to the State Fair. For an overview of the July 19 skate, see the photo show linked to on the right.

First we skated east on S Street. At 20th Street we turned north to skate onto the American River Parkway at the entrance near 20th and C Streets.

e skated east on the American River Parkway. Shortly after the 4 mile marker, we decided to continue on the Parkway to the 6 mile marker, to get a better view of the fair from the east.

At the 6 mile marker, we could not see the fair as well as we expected, so we skated around the east of fair to its front. Then, told by a police officer to leave the grounds because we were on skates, we skated home from the west end of the fair on the American River Parkway, exiting the Parkway near 20th and C.

We skated south through Downtown on 19th Street. Soon we were back at 3rd and S. It was late, almost 9:30. We all went home without our usual food, drink, and conversation. I estimate we skated 14 to 16 miles.

Fun exercise!

Bernie

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Minutes of 2010 National Skate Patrol Meeting

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

On July 12, 9 skate American River Parkway!

9 skaters showed up for the Monday Night Skate on July 12, including: Alice, Amon, Dayle, Gus, Morgan, Russell, and Wendy. I arrived too late - at 7:17 (At the same time I was supposed to leave for the skate, I had to poop.); the group left at 7:10. I did my own skate to Gateway Oaks, barely missing the group on the American River Parkway. No new photos or movies. For patriotic music, listen to the Illusions on the left. For an overview of the July 5 skate, see the video on the right.

After skating to and from Gateway Oaks, I returned to 3rd and S at about 5 after 9. Amon and Gus were there. We enjoyed food, drink, and conversation at Wendy's.

e agreed with Gus's suggestion that next week would be a good week to skate to the State Fair.

Bernie

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Minutes of 2010 National Skate Patrol Meeting

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

On July 5, 5 skate American River Parkway!

5 skaters showed up for the Monday Night Skate on July 5: Amon, Gus, Russell, Steve, and myself. As suggested and led by Steve, we skated north through Old Sacramento onto the American River Parkway via Dave's Bridge. For patriotic music, listen to the Illusions on the left. For an overview of this skate, see the video on the right.

On the American River Parkway we skated north toward the Discovery Park Bridge. When we got to the Discovery Park Bridge, by agreement, I (a slow skater) skated the newer southern side of the river multi-use trail to the 12th Street Bridge, while the rest of the skaters skated into Discovery Park and skated the older and longer north side of the river trail to meet me at the 12th Street Bridge.

hen we met at the 12th Street Bridge, we skated the newer trail back to Old Sacramento, as we returned to our 3rd and S starting point.

I estimate that I skated 6 miles, while the other skaters skated 6 to 8 miles. After the skate, 3 of us enjoyed food, drink, and conversation at Vallejo's.

Bernie

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

Nine Inline Skate the South Line

Nine skaters showed up for the 6/28 MNS: Cynthia, Bernie, Gordon, Steve, Wendy, Alice, Amon, Gus and Brian. A southerly route was chosen taking 3rd St to Broadway to 5th St; meandered on 4th Ave to Muir Way to Robertson to connect to Santa Buena Way to 10th Ave and eventually reaching Riverside Blvd.

Since the photos and movies did not come out, Bernie used a photo(left) and a movie(right) from the July 23, 2007 Monday Night Skate, which was simialr to this skate. Note the pretty view of the Sacramento skyline by the Sacramento River, as skaters approach Sacramento from the south!

We skated into the west side entrance of William Land Park with some expectation to grab a drink at one of the water fountains along the way. But we struck out with the first two fountains we stopped at. Man, the heat seemed to increase with each dry well. The third fountain came through for us and after a quick drink and regrouping we continued through the park to the entrance to the Sacramento Zoo on Land Park Dr.

Amon had a wheel come loose so we took a breather at the zoo while he did a quick repair. After the pit stop, we skated to Sutterville Rd, continuing west to the access point to the recreation trail on the Sacramento River levee. We all made it through the treacherous gravel entrance and continued the skate northward. The asphalt on the levee top is in excellent condition and with some shade provided by the tree cover on the river side of the levee; the slight breeze blowing off the water helped make this section of the skate a real pleasure.

All good things must end and coming down off the levee trail at the Miller Park boat ramp we continued on the abysmal cratered, checkered asphalt on Ramp Way to the intersection of Miller Park Dr. and Front St; skating through to the north side of the park. The recreation trail continues at the rise of the levee; we took the trail north to the newly opened promenade extension. This is a wonderful addition to the recreation trail system. To add sugar to the syrup – the city has added very nice concrete textural elements to the sidewalk; a water misting public art feature and multiple water fountains (that work!). The fountains have faucets at standard height, half height for accommodating children and people in wheelchairs, and dog height. Pretty cool! And the misting art provides a nice cooling treat – just push the actuation button on the south support column.

We finished up the skate by taking “Dave’s Bridge” to cross over the freeway and skate back to the start point at 3 rd and S. Six skaters stayed for après-skate food and conversation at Vallejo’s. Estimated distance six miles; temperature: high 90’s; breeze: slight from the north; fun factor: six flags – more fun.

Keep Skatin’

Brian

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

7 skate to Sacramento State College and back!

Seven skaters - Cynthia, Dayle, Gus, Guy, Russell, Wendy, and myself skated tonight.  As suggested, by Guy, we skated to Sac State via S and T Streets. (For highlights of a skate like this, see the YouTube movie of our similar August 17, 2009 above on the left.)

We skated S St.past Alhambra and then jogged south to T St. T St. is very smooth on the east side of Stockton and we skated quite quickly to 59th St, where we turned north and crossed over Hwy 50.

Continuing on 59th St. we skated to Folsom Blvd near the Corti Bros. market and then skated 58th St. to M St. Turning east on M we made our connection to 62nd St., Next we skated on 62nd Street to its corner with Elvas Blvd.  We next skated Elvas to the CSUS campus access arch and pathway.

The bike path on campus has recently been renovated so the surface is smooth and fast. We skated over to the parking garage.   Most of us enjoyed riding the elevator up and then skating down the this great parking lot.  (Skating the down parking lot is included is in the YouTube video.) WH_EEEE!!!!!

e were ready to leave after we all earned PhDs. ; < )  We then cut through the campus to the J St. entrance and skated back toward mid-town. After passing under Elvas we turned back onto 58th St. and skated south to M St.

We took M Street. west to Alhambra and then skated west on L Street.

Soon we were back at 3rd and S. I estimate that we skated 12 to 14 miles.

After the skate, four of us met at Willie's (Vallejo's was closed.) to enjoy food, beverage, and conversation.

hat wonderful fun aerobic exercise and social fun!  

Bernie

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Minutes of 2010 National Skate Patrol Meeting

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

Gordon leads 8 skaters on 2 American River Parkway skates - 5 skating all the way with him, 3 settling on a shorter route. All satisfied!

We had 8 skaters tonight - Alice, Amon, Gordon, Gus, Morgan, Steve, Wendy, and myself. (See YouTube video linked to above on the right for some highlights.) We left at 10 after 7 on an American River Parkway skate, as suggested and led by by Gordon, assisted by Skate Patrol members, especially Steve Lee.

We skated north to Old Sacramento. Then we took the American River Parkway, taking more or less the route of our May 31, 2010 and our April 5, 2010 skate. See the April 5, 2010 write up by Brian.

Briefly, we skaters wanting a shorter skate (Morgan, Wendy, and and myself) skated the old American River Parkway (north of the river) and the newer trail (south of the river) back. Some advanced skaters (Alice, Amon, Gordon, and Gus) did additional skating. Going north with Gordon at Northgate, they skated north to El Camino, and east to the Levee where they skated north for about 3 miles - to San Juan. They returned the way they went.

I estimate that we short distance skaters skated 6 to 8 miles. The longer distance skaters 12 to 14 miles. After the skates, six of us skaters enjoyed food drink and conversation at Vallejo's.

Keep rolling all you can!

Bernie

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

9 skate easy 8 mile skate (3 skaters) or extended 12 mile skate (6 skaters) based on the Sacramento River Levee, and Land Park loops!

We had 9 skaters tonight - Amon, Cynthia, Gordon, Gus, Mark, Morgan, Russell, Steve, and myself. See skaters posing above on the left. We decided to skate south since we have skated north several times recently, and we wanted to see the opening of a southern extension of the Downtown River Promenade.

On our May 17, 2010 skate Amon provided great photos that show how great it is to skate on the Sacramento River Levee. See photos above center and right to see how great it is to skate the Sacramento River Levee.

After skating north to Dave's Bridge (bridge over I-5 to Front Street) and skating over Dave's Bridge to Front Street, we were pleased to see the southern extension of the Riverfront Promenade. We skated this promenade and bike trail south to Broadway. Then we skated to Miller's Park and the Sacramento Marina.

e enjoyed looking at the boats in the Marina. Then we skated around the Marina onto Ramp Street. On Ramp Street's R_O^UGH pavement, we skated south onto the Sacramento River Levee, where we continued south.

At Sutterville Road we stopped, then decided that some would skate further south (6 skaters), and some would skate east on Sutterville Road (3 skaters).

As we were skating north on 17th Street, all 9 skaters got together again. After stopping at California Middle School, we skated north on Marty to the Tower Theater Marquee.

After enjoying the Tower Theater Marquee, we skated west on Broadway, north on Riverside Boulevard and 11th Street to S Street. Skating west on S we were soon back at our 3rd and S starting point.

After the skate, 8 of use ENJOYED FOOD, DRINK, and CONVERSATION at Vallejo's. Wonderful night!

Bernie

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Minutes of 2010 National Skate Patrol Meeting

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

Gordon leads 6 skaters on 2 American River Parkway skates - 3 skating all the way with him, 3 settling on a shorter route. All satisfied!

We had 6 skaters tonight - Gordon, Gus, Russell, Tanya, Tina, and myself. (See photo above on the left.) We left at 10 after 7 on an American River Parkway skate, as suggested and led by by Gordon.

We skated north to Old Sacramento. Then we took the American River Parkway, taking more or less the route of our April 5, 2010 skate. See the YouTube video linked to above on the right. And see the April 5, 2010 write up by Brian.

Briefly, we slower skaters (Gus, Russell, and myself)skated the old American River Parkway (north of the river) and the newer trail (south of the river) back. Some advanced skaters (Gordon, Tanya, and Tina) did additional skating. Going north with Gordon at Northgate, they skated north to El Camino, and east to the Levee where they skated north for about 3 miles. They returned the way they went.

I estimate that we slow skaters skated 8 miles. The fast skaters 12 to 14 miles. After the skates, Gordon, Gus, and I enjoyed food drink and conversation at Vallejo's.

Keep rolling all you can!

Bernie

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Minutes of 2010 National Skate Patrol Meeting

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

9 skaters enjoy some of the wonders of the American River Parkway!

We had 9 skaters tonight - Amon, Brian, Cynthia, Gus, Molly, Morgan, Russell, Steve, and myself. I expected a write-up from Brian, but I never received it, so here is my report. Tonight's skate was somewhat like our April 10, 2010 Monday Night Skate (See above left linked to YouTube video.), and our May 19, 2008 Monday Night skate (See above right linked to YouTube video). But our skate was original too (See the photograph above in the middle).

Here is a link to the detailed write-up by Brian of a similar skate: April 5, 2010 write up by Brian.

We skated the old American River Parkway (north of the river) and the newer trail (south of the river) back. Some advanced skaters did additional skating. I estimate we skated about 8 miles.

We had good participation in Vallejo's after the skate. FOODDRINKCONVERSTION!

Keep rolling all you can!

Bernie

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

5 skate Sacramento River Levee, Seamas Avenue, Sutterville Road, Land Park, Sacramento City College loop!

We had 5 skaters tonight - Amon, Cynthia, Gus, Russell, and myself. Amon and Russell have skated with us before a long time ago. Russell sometimes skates with the seniors at Sunrise Rollerland. As I suggested, we decided to do a southern route - south on the Sacramento River Levee.

After I first wrote about this skate, I received some great photos of it from Amon. Now I am able to post them. If yo8u look above, you can see 1. Cynthia skate north on the Sacramento River Levee, 2. Gus, Cynthia, and Bernie skating north on the Sacramento River Levee. Both of these photos were by Amon. From his camera, we also have 3. Amon, Cynthia, Russell, and Gus posing as we skated north on Riverside Boulevard.

This skate ended up being like our October 5, 2009 skate, which was sort of like our October 6, 2008 skate, so, lacking new photos and movies, I have used the October 6, 2008 You Tube film clip to illustrate this skate. Here is a link to our October 5, 2009 skate . Here is a link to our October 6, 2008 skate. And, you can click above on the right on the photo that links to a YouTube video of us skating a parking lot on the October 6, 2008 Monday Night Skate.

After skating south on 3rd Street to Broadway, we skated west to Miller Park, where we enjoyed looking at the boats in the Marina. Then we skated around the Marina onto Ramp Street. On Ramp Street's R_O^UGH pavement, we skated south onto the Sacramento River Levee, where we continued south.

At Sutterville Road we stopped, then decided to skate even further south - as suggested by Cynthia. We skated south past Captain's Table onto Riverside Boulevard, where we continued south to Seamas Avenue, where we skated east to Karmet Way. On Karmet Way we skated north. Eventually it becomes Riverside Boulevard. At Sutterville Road we skated east to the Sacramento Zoo and Land Park.

From the Sacramento Zoo we looped through Land Park to Sacramento City College. At Sacramento City College we skated around a little as we headed to the parking lot. All of us enjoyed skating down this wonderful parking lot. WH_EEEE!!!!!

e skated home on 21st Street, turning west on S Street. We were soon back at 3rd and S, our starting point. I estimate that this was an 10 to 12 mile skate.

After the skate, since Vallejo's closed at 9:00 pm, all 5 of us enjoyed FOOD, DRINK, and CONVERSATION at Ernesto's. Wonderful night!

Bernie

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Minutes of 2010 National Skate Patrol Meeting

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

I was the only skater tonight. I skated the American River Parkway home, having a great time and a good work out!

I arrived at 7:01 and left at 7:17, after telling Lena in Vallejo's that there were no skaters tonight. No other skaters showed. I guess many thought it was going to rain.

I took the American River Parkway home, taking more or less the route of our April 5, 2010 skate. See the YouTube videos linked to above on the left and the right. And see the April 5, 2010 write up by Brian.

Along the way I found a section of the trail that was covered by a flock of ducks. Beautiful!

I exited the Parkway at 20th and C, feeling good. I had skated about 6 miles, having a great aerobic workout. I could feel some beta endorphins, and I knew a great dinner, TV watching session, and night of sleep awaited me.

Keep rolling all you can!

Bernie

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Minutes of 2010 National Skate Patrol Meeting

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

5 skate American River Parkway!

5 skaters showed up for the Monday Night Skate on May 3: Gus, Guy, Morgan, Steve, and myself. As suggested by Steve, we skated north through Old Sacramento onto the American River Parkway. See the American River Photo above on the left.

On the American River Parkway we skated north toward the Discovery Park Bridge.

At that point I left the group to skate home and complete an online Accounting test.

Bernie

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Minutes of 2010 National Skate Patrol Meeting

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

Eight Congregate For A Great Skate - with before and after photos

Eight skaters showed up for the Monday Night Skate on 4/26: Cynthia, Dayle, Steve, Gordon, Morgan, Bernie, Gus and Brian – pretty good turnout. A skate to and through Curtis Park with a loop around to the “Dragon House” on 22 d St. between 4th Ave and 3rd was chosen with a open-ended option to ad-lib as we skated.

We took a standard route to Curtis Park – east on S St. with a turn southward on 26th St. After crossing Broadway we regrouped and continued on 26th. At teeing with Marshall Way we turned east, skated a couple blocks to the continuation of 26th St. and skated into Curtis Park. We skated the length of the park on West Curtis Park Dr. to the Sutterville Road connection. A quick regrouping and we skated the opposite side of Curtis Park on East Curtis Park Dr. back to 26th.

North on 26th to Portola Way and we skated west toward the 22nd St. and 4th Ave. to rendezvous at the “Dragon House”. Cruising through Curtis Park and the north Curtis Park area is a visual treat. The architecture styles are so eclectic and amazing. Every house has some detail or nuance that speaks of the fun, whimsy and pride of the designers, builders and owners of the houses in this area. What are you looking for? Front porches? Columns and stoops? Fish scale tile siding? Fences that are landscaping statements and not just barriers? You'll find it in this area and continuing northward through the “Sierra 2” area.

At 22nd St. we turned north to the “Dragon House” that sits mid-block. This is a labor of love, an architectural statement and neighborhood icon and well worth a visit to enjoy the fine detail work, water minimizing landscaping (with garden fairy friendly details) and beautiful etched glasswork. I don't know if the project will ever be completed as new details are continually added . A scaffold could be seen on the back corner of the house so presumably construction is in progress. Good luck to the owners on their endeavor(s).

We continued west on 3rd Ave to 21st; turned northward; crossed Broadway continued under the cross-city freeway and made a decision at the corner of T St. to turn west there. The house at the corner of 21 st and T is one of the premier Victorians in Sacramento – definitely worth taking a peek at next time you drive (or skate) by. T St. was skated to 3rd St. and we turned north to finish back at S St.

This was a shorter skate and I estimate the distance at about six miles. Six of us stayed for food and conversation at Vallejo's. As always the subjects of conversation were varied and often off-beat. The food was good and the conversation engaging. A perfect ending for a great skate.

Until next week – keep skatin'

Brian

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Minutes of 2010 National Skate Patrol Meeting

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

5 skate Sacramento streets, the American River Parkway, a Natomas skate park and back! Pictures, video, and story below:

Videos and photos below (except the first photo) are from previous similar skates.

Steve, Gus, Cynthia, and Morgan pose near the Bridge into Discovery Park on the April 19, 2010 Monday Night Skate.	Skating into Discovery Park on the May 19, 2008 Monday Night Skate.	Dave and Tina skate at a skate park on the May 18, 2009 Monday Night Skate.

We had 5 skaters tonight - Cynthia, Gus, Morgan, Steve, and myself. We decided to skate to Natomas Industrial Park.

First we skated north on 3rd Street, then we skated west on O Street to Front Street, where we skated the Promenade into Old Sacramento. In Old Sacramento we skated north on 2nd Street and and west onto the American River Parkway.

On the American River Parkway, we skated north to the Discovery Park Bridge. See near Discovery Park Bridge photo above on the left. Then we skated into Discovery Park. See skating into Discovery Park Bridge photo that links to a YouTube video above in the center. Skating down the bridge into Discovery Park is always fun. WH_EEEE!!!!!

In Discovery Park we skated north to exit onto Garden Highway.  Fortunately, at this point, there is a multi-use trail parallel to Garden Highway.  We took this trail west to Gateway Oaks Drive, were we skated north to River Plaza Drive.  On River Plaza Drive we again skated west onto a Natomas Parkway trail.

On the Natomas Trail we skated west over a bridge to a skate park, where all of our skaters did tricks. See the Skate Park photo linked to a YouTube video above on the right.

After the Skate Park and an ambiguous election, we returned to 3rd md S so we could get to Vallejo's before 9:00.

Returning the way we came, in a while we were back at 3rd and S. I estimate that we skated 6 to 8 miles.

Morgan had to leave, but the rest of us enjoyed food, drink, and extensive conversation at Vallejo's. Great exercise and fun night!

Bernie

Surfing USA
(66K midi, 2 minutes & 25 seconds play)

Minutes of 2010 National Skate Patrol Meeting

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

Tonight we were rained out.

It rained off and on in Downtown Sacramento today until about 5:00 p.m. At 7:00 p.m. the streets and sidewalks were about 98% wet, and more rain was expected. Great for slipping and sliding, not for skating.

I did not show up, and I don't think anybody else did.

I hope to see you at 3rd and S so we can skate together next Monday!

Bernie

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Minutes of 2010 National Skate Patrol Meeting

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

Four Skaters Loop Disco Park and Traverse Twin Rivers!

Cynthia, Bernie, Gus and I made it out for the 4/5/2010 MSN. I arrived a little after 7 PM and the other three already had a plan of action decided: a skate northward through Discovery Park to the Jedidiah Smith Recreation Trail on the north side of the American River; looping back over the 12th Street Bridge and finishing the skate by returning on the Two Rivers Recreation Trail on the south side of the river. For the Two Rivers section of the skate route, check out the City of Sacramento's info page here: Two Rivers Trail.

We started northward on 3rd St. to O St.; at O we proceeded west toward the Sacramento River. In front of the Crocker Art Museum we paused for a photo op; admiring the juxtaposition of the Victorian Italianate style of the original Crocker mansion gallery with the modern style of the recent addition - which in my opinion takes some visual cues from The Guggenheim in NYC. Check out the architect's project description here:CROCKER ART MUSEUM Addition and Renovation.

West on O St. to Front St. where we turned north and skated into and through Old Sac. At the north end of OS we reconnected with the recreation trail; skated past the Sacramento Water Intake Facility (which unfortunately has been tagged up with graffiti); skated past the old water intake facility (which is moldering away and could be re-purposed – see my mad mental meandering in the write-up for the March 1, 2010 MSN March 1, 2010 Monday Night Skate; glided past the quiet, empty parking lot on the south side of the American River-Sacramento River confluence where a very happy couple was strolling hand-in-hand adding their positive karmic energy to quietly reverberating echoes of the crowds of summers-past that once thronged on the banks of the rivers and will soon return with the warming weather of spring then summer. We regrouped at the Discovery Park entrance and then continued north over the Disco Park bridge; turned east to connect to the recreation trail on the north side of the American River. This section of the rec trail took us to the Del Paso Blvd. crossing where we turned southwest to begin the return loop of the skate.

We hopped onto the Twin Rivers Recreation Trail just after crossing over the North 12th Street Bridge, (see Sac City Parks & Rec link above for map). This section of the trail is fairly new asphalt, just over 2-1/2 years old, so the surface is smooth and fast. The TRRT brought us back to the entrance of Discovery Park, where once again we regrouped.

The final leg of the skate was a reverse of the outgoing trip through Old Sac and past the Crocker Museum. We finished the skate at 8:40 PM at 3rd and S St. and covered between 6 to 8 miles.

All four of us stayed for food and conversation at Vallejo's. Topics of discussion: Alameda and Oakland skating areas, smart phones, GPSs, health clubs, previous Monday Night Skates, iPads and early adopters, house prices (good time to buy, tough time to sell); we just swing at everything that is thrown over the plate! But it is all good. Let's do a tally: Started with four skaters, ended with four skaters. Check. Weather was perfect at the start of the skate, perfect at the end. Check. Fun, non-competitive activity completed. Stress is reduced. Check. Joints, muscles and circulation is improved. Check. Check it off – I am checking out.

Keep skatin'

Brian

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Minutes of 2010 National Skate Patrol Meeting

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

4 skate north to L Street, south to Sacramento River Levee, by the Sacramento Zoo, by Land Park and back to 3rd and S! About 8 miles. New route, but no new photos. Great write-up by Brian:

So here is how the March 29 th skate went down: winds were kicking up strongly and our initial route of skating northward to North 7th St. and Richards Blvd. was quickly changed to skating southward (into the wind) and looping around on Land Park Drive, thus catching a tailwind on the return leg of the skate. So those four intrepid souls who came to skate: Bernie, Morgan, Gus and myself made a big westward turn somewhere near 7th and L St.

Traveling west on L and skating over to 3rd St. our skates shattered the street side silence with searing supersonic speed; at Capitol Mall traveling west to the Tower Bridge, we were a symphony of skating syncopation. Proceeding proudly we positively powered perfectly upon the Promenade proper with panther-like precision yet preserving a primary propensity to perpetrate our passage to the proverbial precipice of the promenade. Popping out of this putrefying prose pulp - we skated down to the construction activity at the south extent of the sidewalk (at the "Q St. Steppes" and Streetlight Museum) where a wonder-out-loud discussion ensued over the possibilities that will become (profuse prognostications?). When the construction is completed, the new extension will create a beautiful ribbon of smooth, luscious concrete from the Tower Bridge to the recreation trail access point that is about 200 ft south of “The Steppes” and a stones throw away from the pedestrian over- crossing bridge (“Dave's Bridge” to those in the know). A small columned circle has been added to the promenade and this will be a very nice addition. The stated opening date (early March) was long past but the construction looks to be in the closing phases – hand rails, curb lighting, etc. so it shouldn't be long for official ribbon cutting.

With rain clouds building from the west and the winds staying strong we decided to get rolling again and continued south on Front St. to the south marina of Miller Park. Taking Miller Park Drive south was a necessary evil. I constantly rag about the terrible asphalt on this section of road and it just continues to deteriorate and get worst. There used to be a thin line of smooth patch asphalt offset slightly west of the thoroughfare centerline (some type of utility back fill/repair). Well this thin line of smooth has acquiesced to the ravages of nature and is as checked and pot-holed as the rest of the road. To add to the hazards, skunks were out and scurrying.

Up on the levee-top recreation trail we took the full force of the headwind. It was one long hill climb to our turn point at the Sutterville Rd. access point. We regrouped for a moment and then turned east to start the return leg of the skate. At Land Park we skated north to Broadway – taking a moment to check out the movie marquees at the Tower Theater; continued to Riverside Blvd/11th St. turning north on 11th. At the corner of 11th and S St. Morgan broke off to skate back toward CSUS where he was to rendezvous with his son. Bernie, Gus and I continued west on S to finish back at the start point at the corner of S and 3rd.

Gus and Bernie stayed for food and conversation at Vallejo's. I had to call it a night and head home. Overall, the skate was great – we didn't get rained on, we caught a decent tailwind on the return leg of the trip and we only had two irate citizens give us “F you” salutes. We have to believe they were so choked up with love that those were the only words that they were able to cough out. Something about inline skating just brings out the best in some people...

Until next week - Keep Skatin'

Brian

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Minutes of 2010 National Skate Patrol Meeting

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

6 skate south on Sacramento River Levee, through Land Park, and back to 3rd and S!

Cynthia (new skater), Dayle, Gus, Guy, Steve, and I skated. The weather was nice and it didn't get dark til after 7:35.

We decided to skate south on the Sacramento River Levee. First, as suggested by Steve, we would cross Dave's Bridge. So we skated west over Dave's Bridge (a bridge over the I 5 Freeway discovered by skater, David) to Front Street. Here there used to be a north-south trail near the River, but now there is construction, so we skated south on Front Street itself to Broadway.

Crossing Broadway, we skated south to the Marina. See the photo above on the left. From the Marina we skated south on Ramp Road and onto the Sacramento River Levee, where we continued south.

e paused at Sutterville Road, where we decided to continue south to Captain's Table, as suggested by Guy. At Captain's Table we skated east on 25th Avenue and north and east on other streets to Land Park Boulevard.

We continued north on Land Park Boulevard into Land Park, where we skated quite a loop. exiting again on Land Park, where we again skated north to the Tower Theater.

Homeward bound, we skated west on Broadway, north on Riverside Boulevard, and west on S Street to Vallejo's. Guy left, but the rest of stayed for food, drink, and conversation at Vallejo's. See the photo above on the right. I estimate that this was an 8 to 10 mile skate.

Bernie

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Minutes of 2010 National Skate Patrol Meeting

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

One new photo, and six enjoy skating 8 mile S Street, T Street, 59th Street, M Street...loop! See great write up by Brian:

Bernie, Dayle, Rusty, Dave, Gordon and I were the skate crew for Monday night. With benefit from Daylight Saving Time, we started the skate with a little sunlight remaining. The daylight will continue to lengthen into the afternoon hours and the skating will just get better and better. So come out of your burrows all you hibernating skaters!

Initially, we chose a skate to CSUS but as will be described our goals would take a shift. To get the skate started we took a standard eastward roll on S St. At 29th Dave called for a detour and we swung into the Temple Coffee and Tea at 2928 S St. We didn't try out their coffee or tea but the place has great ambiance and seems to have a strong clientele. Bernie took advantage of our stop to grab a photo op. See photo above on the right. Should I ever take up coffee drinking I'll have to stop by this place and give their cup o' joe a test drive – maybe Dave will drop a line on his opinion – he's our culinary expert on wheels!

e crossed under the Cap City Freeway; turned south for one block at 30th St.; east on T St. and continued across Alhambra staying on T St. We would take T St. east to 59th St. T St. is one of the best streets around for skating. It has wide bike lanes, good condition asphalt and really diversified architecture. Not that we could see it in the dark but we knew it was there and that is all that matters...

We regrouped at 59th then skated north to Folsom Blvd, passing the Corti Bros. Market at the corner. Corti Bros. has repaved their back parking lot. Wow! Wonderful black ice, smooth and blemish-free. This lot has for years been a sea of potholes and checkered pavement with an intermingling of patches just waiting to snag an unsuspecting skater and unleash the road rash beast. Well no more – well done CBM!

We crossed Folsom to 58th St. and made a decision to forgo a full CSUS loop and just go down to M St. and take it back westward. We made excellent time on M; crossed Alhambra to connect with Capital. Realizing time was quickly approaching 8:15 PM reinvigorated our skating and we covered the distance from Alhambra to 7th St. with minimal stops – can't win a fight with the cars!

We arrived back at the start point at 3rd and S around 8:30 PM. Bernie, Gordon and Dayle stayed for food and conversation at Vallejo's. I had to call it a night so I don't know what the topic(s) of discussion was but I'll wager politics and the nation's economy were touched on. Or possibly investment strategies or state employee furlough days or skiing conditions... You get the picture – a great skate, great weather , and certainly fun and engaging conversation!

Keep skatin'

Brian

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Minutes of 2010 National Skate Patrol Meeting

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

No new photos, but 2 enjoy skating 8 mile East Poratl Park loop.... See great write up by Brian:

Bernie and I showed up to skate last Monday Night - the Dynamic Duo out to tame the mean streets of Gotham with flashing skate frames, wheels cutting and slashing the asphalt; rending the stale, stagnant air of downtown and leaving trail of melted pavement as evidence of our travels. Well, that would be neat and impressive but realistically, we took a rather casual and sedate skate to East Portal Park.

We got rolling around 7:15 PM and I believe the temperature was somewhere in the mid to high 50s with a light breeze blowing from the southwest. This breeze would come back on to haunt us on the return leg of the skate as it would be continuously in our face – one long, long hill to climb.

The route we chose was fairly standard. East on S St. to about 27th St. where we turned north and skate to Capitol Ave. Turning east on Capitol we crossed through the construction in front of Biba's continued under the Capital Freeway, crossed Alhambra and turned in behind the defunct Andiamo's! Restaurant. A little zigging and zagging brought us to Seville; north for two blocks then we turned east on L St. At 35th St. we skated south for a block and turned east on M St.

Surprisingly, traffic on M St. was pretty heavy for the time of night but we made the best of the situation and by the time we passed 38th or 39th St. traffic was virtually non-existent. Bernie mentioned how 39th St. is a great street to skate since it is wide, well illuminated and stretches southward to T St. So we called an audible to change up the skate loop and return from East Portal Park via 39th and T.

At East Portal Park we took a quick breather at the park bench next to the vestigial remains of the water fountain. Between discussing super string theories and macroeconomic indicators we pondered why the water fountain was removed. Possibly, the fountain was a magnet for homeless people? Possibly, it was vandalized? With no answer to be found and the hour getting late we got rolling back to complete the skate.

Turning south on 39th took us through the heart of the “fab 40's” area. The architecture and landscaping in this neighborhood is impressive any hour of the day or night. 39th takes a slight jog at Folsom Blvd. and Bernie and I timed the traffic signal just right and did not have to slow significantly to make a safe crossing of Folsom. At the corner of 39th and T St. we turned west and took T all the way back to 4th St. Skating one block north brought us back to the start point at S St.

e stayed for food and conversation at Vallejo's restaurant. I estimate the distance at about eight miles. The weather conditions were great and the exercise and fun invaluable!

Keep skatin'

Brian

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Minutes of 2010 National Skate Patrol Meeting

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

4 enjoy skating to and from Gateway Oaks Business Park.... See great write up by Brian:

Day le, Steve, Bernie and I showed up to skate. The weather conditions were great for skating and a loop out to the Gateway Oaks business park was picked. This skating route is predominantly on recreation paths but also has short connecting jaunts on street surfaces.

We skated north on 3rd St. to O St. crossed over the freeway and hopped up on the levee top promenade; proceeding north. As we glided past the quiet yet incandescently jeweled marina catwalks lining the Sacramento River the sound of our skates skimming the concrete was in symphony with the faraway murmurs of conversations and tinkling of glassware coming from riverside restaurants. Each sound bouncing and reflecting from the languid ribbon of water flowing past...

Anyway, breaking out of this reverie, we crossed Capitol Mall at the east end of the Tower Bridge to enter Old Sac. We rolled over the jagged bone-jarring checkered asphalt on Front St. turned east; took advantage of the slight downhill on Front and connected with 2nd St. A quick skate on 2nd got us to the north end of Old Town. At the connection to the recreation trail a quick breather was taken then we took the rec trail north under the I St. and Jibboom St. Bridges.

We skated through the fountain and seating area in front of the new water intake facility then passed the ancient hulk of the old water intake facility. Just a side note - here is a little gem the City of Sacramento is letting waste - the old intake facility should be converted to a one-of-a-kind , in-the-river panoramic view accommodation. I have never been inside the thing but it more than likely has at least four floors: top entry, controls, maintenance, and pumps. So refit the upper entry level with new windows and doors; convert the controls and maintenance levels into sitting and sleeping areas with french doors opening to decks out over the river; add the appropriate heating and ac equipment, a kitchenette with wine cooler; cable and WI-FI connections; hardwood flooring throughout and upgrade the connecting catwalk; add fire and intrusion alarms, and rent the place out as an in-river retreat. Perfect of quiet romantic getaways; quiet corners of solitude for struggling writers, etc. Hey! It has a great view of the river and the catwalk is an awesome entryway.

Well, back to the skate... We regrouped at the Discovery Park Bridge then crossed over the American River into Discover Park; followed Discovery Park Road through the park to Garden Highway. We skated the rec trail that parallels Garden Hwy and traveled west to Gateway Oaks Dr. North on Gateway where we dropped down the short little downhill that is always a blast and then we turned west on River Plaza.

River Plaza deadheads with the rec trail access point at the base of the levee for what I believe is called the Main Drainage Canal. Whatever its name, we took the rec trail that parallels it. This trail crosses West El Camino and then continues to meander northward and curls around the perimeter of the Gateway Oaks Business Park. We regrouped at a patio table at the business park where Bernie grabbed a photo or two.

Our return trip was a reverse of the outgoing leg except Bernie, who has at times been known to put on a cape and assume the personae of "Capt. Rollerblade" took an amazing header into a landscaping area as we were coming off the recreation trail onto River Plaza Dr. The grass border actually has an asphalt curb about three inches high and at night this curb is virtually invisible. Needless to say it took Bernie's wheels right out from under him. The Capt. Rollerblade cape probably would have added to Bernie's flight distance, approximately eight feet or so. Landing on grass kept the potential for injury low but at the speed Bernie was traveling I am going to have to give credit to Bernie's cat-like reflexes for keeping him out of major pain. Maybe "Ironman Scoville" is an apt moniker... :-)

e took a detour in Old Sac to skate the pedestrian tunnel that connects Old Sac to the Downtown Plaza. We turned south after passing under the Indo Arch and the Downtown Plaza catwalk; crossed L St., Capitol Mall, N, O, and Q St.; jogged west to 3rd St.; took 3rd south to arrive back at our start point at S St.

Vallejo's was already closed so we took a trip over to Willy's at 16th and Broadway. Willy's had all the high carb, full fat comfort food we needed to finish a most excellent skate. I'll estimate the distance at eight miles; the decompression from the daily grind invaluable; the fun of rolling free immense.

Until next week - keep skatin'

Brian

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

5 enjoy skating loop through Curtis Park, SCC, Land Park.... See great write up by Brian:

Dayle, Bernie, Dave, Rusty and I showed up to skate and the weather conditions were similar to the week before: light breeze, air temperature in the mid 60s.

Bernie suggested a skate to Sacramento City College by way of Curtis Park and with all in agreement or at least no dissension we got rolling around 7:15 pm.

East on S St. to 26th St. then south on 26th.crossing Broadway et. al. until we teed with Marshall Way. Dave, Rusty and I went east on Marshall and looped back east on Donner to 26th; Bernie and Dale went west on Marshall to 26th. We all regrouped at the north entrance to Curtis Park.

We skated W. Curtis Park Dr. to Sutterville Road. At Sutterville we skated west, up over the train track over crossing, (one of the "hills" of Sacramento) and turned into the Sacramento City College parking lot.

We continued over the parking structure where Bernie, Dave and Rusty took a quick downhill run. You can click on the thumbnail above on the left for a 2008 YouTube video of skating down this parking lot. WH_EEEE!!!!!

e skated through the campus to Freeport Blvd, crossed over to College Ave. then meandered through the beautiful houses in this area until we reached 17th St and the south entrance to California Middle School.

At the school we skated the beautiful interior courtyard; Dave and Bernie talked politics. The brave ones voiced their opinions while the rest of us listened to the sweet symphony of urethane wheels on concrete...

To finish the loop we continued north to Marty Way, connected with Broadway (with a quick look at the movie marquees at the Tower Theater -- See photo above on the right.); swung north on 11th St. and turned west on S St.

Time: approx. 8:45 pm Distance: approx. 8 miles. Fun: priceless...

Keep Skatin

Brian

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

I did not skate tonight; I was sick with a serious cold. Bernie  Brian has done a great write up for us:

Rusty, Dave and I showed up to skate. The weather conditions were perfect; a light breeze blowing and the temperature in the mid 60's. We chose a skate to East Portal Park and got going around 7:10 pm.

Our route, fairly standard: east on S St. to 11th, turning north, and continuing to N St. We skated the perimeter sidewalk of the park to Capitol Ave; crossed 15th St. to continue east. Automobile traffic was light and we made good time through midtown.

After squeezing through the construction cataract at Capitol and 26th we crossed Alhambra,skirted around the backside of the old Andiamo's! Restaurant and skated north on Seville to L St.

East on L St. to 35th; jogging south one block to M St. Once again, with little automobile traffic on the road, we skated swiftly eastward to 52nd St. and East Portal Park.

A ten minute breather was taken on a park bench on the south side of the park and we returned to our start point at 3rd and S to complete the skate loop with a direct reversal of the outgoing leg.

A check of the clock: 8:15 pm. Distance: approx. 8 miles.

Keep Skatin

Brian

Surfing USA
(66K midi, 2 minutes & 25 seconds play)

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

3 skate Sacramento River Levee, Land Park, Sacramento City College loop!

We had 3 skaters tonight - Dave, Rusty, and myself. As suggested by Dave, we decided to do a southern route - south on the Sacramento River Levee. To start we skated south on 3rd Street to Broadway.

I did not make any new photos or movies. This skate ended up being very like our October 5, 2009 skate, which was sort of like our October 6, 2008 skate, so, lacking new photos and movies, I used the October 6, 2008 You Tube film clip and and the October 5, 2009 photo to illustrate this skate. Here is a link to our October 5, 2009 skate . Here is a link to our October 6, 2008 skate . You can also click on the thumbnails above to see these earlier graphics.

After crossing south on Broadway, we skated south on Ramp Street, then we continued south on the Sacramento River Levee. At Sutterville Road we decided to skate east to the Sacramento Zoo.

From the Sacramento Zoo we skated through Land Park to Sacramento City College. At Sacramento City College we skated around a little as we headed to the parking lot. All of us enjoyed skating down this wonderful parking lot. WH_EEEE!!!!!

hile skating home we went by Crocker Middle School and near the Tower Theater Marquee. Then we split up and went to our homes. I estimate that this was about an 8 mile skate.

Another great skate - great conversation and exercise!

Bernie

Surfing USA
(66K midi, 2 minutes & 25 seconds play)

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

Tonight, I KNOW we were rained out.

It rained off and on in Downtown Sacramento today. At 6:00 pm it was still raining, and the pavement was 100 percent wet. Great for slipping and sliding, not for skating.

I did not show up, and I don't think anybody else did.

I hope to see you and skate together next Monday!

Bernie

Surfing USA
(66K midi, 2 minutes & 25 seconds play)

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

Tonight, I believe we were rained out.

It rained off and on early today - until about 2:00 p.m . At 7:00 p.m. the streets and sidewalks were still quite wet in many places. About 30% of the pavement near my Midtown house was wet. Not a great night for skating.

I did not show up, but maybe other skaters did. I may update this report in the future.

Bernie

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

6 Skaters enjoy Downtown Sacramento City, American River Parkway, Downtown Sacramento City loop!

We had 6 skaters tonight - David, Ronald, Rusty, Steve, Thom, and myself. Ronald, who has had to work Monday nights, was able to return tonight. Since the ice-skating rink will be closing soon (the 18th), we decided to start our skate by visiting it.

So we skated east on S Street to 20th Street, then we skated north to the ice-skating rink. To see us stop at the ice-skating rink, see the photo above on the right. Again, I don't much understand all of this ice-skating. For about $10 you get to borrow some ice skates and skate around in a small area for a brief time. If you own inline skates you can skate anywhere with pavement anytime you want as long as you want for free. !!!FREE!!!

Next we skated north on 20th Street to C Street, where we skated onto the American River Parkway. On the Parkway we skated to Del Paso and Northgate, where we skated over the 12th Street Bridge onto the newer branch (southern) of the Parkway that would take us west past 2 possible exits toward Downtown Sacramento before the Discovery Park Bridge.

e turned south from the American River Parkway at the second Downtown exit, heading south to Richard's Boulevard.

On Richard's Boulevard, we skated east to 7th Street. On 7th Street we skated south into Downtown Sacramento, then we returned to our 3rd and S starting point. I estimate we skated 6 to 8 miles.

After the skate (thanks to carpooling with Steve), Ronald, Steve, and I enjoyed food , drinks and conversation at the Crab Shack, where Ronald, who works there, could get us food and drinks for half price. We spent some of our time talking about Chile, since Ronald is form there. Another great night of exercise and social fun!

Bernie

Johnny Be Good
(40K midi, 2 minutes & 15 seconds play)

Sacramento Skate Patrol Meetings

5 Skaters enjoy Downtown Sacramento City and American River Parkway loop!

We had 5 skaters tonight - Dayle, Rusty, Steve, Thom, and myself. Rusty brought a new skater, Thom. Dayle wanted a skate with light, so we started out on downtown Sacramento streets.

First we skated east on S Street to 20th Street, then we skated north to the ice-skating rink. To see us stop at the ice-skating rink, see the photo above on the left. Again, I don't much understand all of this ice-skating. For about $10 you get to borrow some ice skates and skate around in a small area for a brief time. If you own inline skates you can skate anywhere with pavement anytime you want as long as you want for free. !!!FREE!!!

Next we skated north on 20th Street to C Street, where we skated onto the American River Parkway. On the Parkway we skated to Del Paso and Northgate, where we skated over the 12th Street Bridge onto the newer branch (southern) of the Parkway that would take us west to the Discovery Park Bridge and into Old Sacramento.

e were homeward bound - returning to 3rd and S! I estimate that we skated 6 to 8 miles.

After the skate, Dayle, Steve, and I enjoyed food , drinks and conversation at the Tower Cafe. Mark, who used to skate with us, was there with Amy, his girlfriend. Another great night of exercise and social fun!

Bernie