L O N G I S L A N D

M O U N T A I N E E R

N e w s l e t t e r o f t h e A d i r o n d a c k M o u n t a i n C l u b

L o n g I s l a n d C h a p t e r

M a r c h & A p r i l 2 0 0 3

P r e s i d e n t ' s C o r n e r Dick Maemone

One of the greatest pleasures of serving as your President is to exchange ideas with you, the members of the Long Island Chapter of ADK. And when I am able to mix and mingle with you on a hike, a weekend or at a meeting, I 'm often asked on one way or another, "What are the prospects for our Chapter?"

When I am asked this question, I am reminded of the story of the wise old man who lived in the forest outside a great city. People went to him for advice and, truly, he was wise in the advice he gave.

There was a young boy in the city who felt he was wiser than the old man and plotted to fool him. He would catch a bird and holding the bird in his hands, he would go to see the old man. When he got there he would ask him, "Old man, what do I have in my hands?" Of course, the old man would reply, "A bird", being able to see the feathers. To which his tormentor would reply, "Is it alive or dead? "

If the old man said "alive" the boy would quickly crush the bird in his hands. If he said the bird was "dead", the boy would immediately let the bird loose and it would fly away. Having devised his "fool proof scheme, the boy went in search of the old man. He found the old man and confronted him.

"Old man, what do I have in my hands? ", said the boy. To which the old man replied, "A bird. " Then the boy asked, "Old man, is the bird alive or dead? ", to which the old man replied, "It is in your hands, my son. "

What are the prospects for the Long Island Chapter of ADK? Truthfully, I can only reply, "It is in your hands."

I believe that if the Chapter is to not only survive, but thrive in future years, it needs three things: members, members and members.

• We need new members whose diversity of ideas and interests will serve as a continuing source of vitality for our Chapter...

Adirondack Mountain Club Long Island Chapter

2002-2003 Executive Committee

President Dick Maemone 516-496-9127

Vice-President

Treasurer BudKazdan 631-549-5015

Secretary Nancy Hodson 516-692-5754

Director Carol McHugh 718-423-4083

Alternate Director John DiGiacomo 631-724-8578

Carol Mantell 631-598-1015

Board of Directors

Phil Bifulco 631 -669-2326 Herb Coles 516-897-5306

June Fait 516-897-5306 Micheline Kagan 718-746-4753

Jim Purdy 631-754-6989 Yoshiko Takeshita 631-751-0301

Committee Chairs

Conservation June Fait 516-897-5306

Education Jerry Licht 516-797-5729

Hospitality Arlene Scholer 516-354-0231

Mountaineer Ellen Kelly 516-873-1860

Membership John White 631-654-2016

Outings Sheila Lipshie 516-349-7910

Programs

Publicity Arlene Scholer 516-354-0231

Publicity Flyers Susin Packert 631-952-6713

Trail Conference Judy Snyder 516-826-5261

Trail Maintenance Herb Coles 516-897-5306

President's Corner (continued...)

• Wefneed involved members who will participate ' in all the Chapter has to offer and who will live up to the responsibilities of their membership by lending a hand, without hesitation and without being asked...

• We need members who will rise to the challenge of Chapter leadership. Members who will freely offer their time and effort so as to ensure that the Chapter fulfills its mission of conservation, education and recreation for many years to .come.

Your officers, directors and Club director will do all they can, but ultimately, it is in your hands.

C l u b O p p o r t u n i t i e s

Enhance Your Leadership Abilities

Our Chapter has two once in a lifetime opportunities for proactive members to learn what it takes to be a volunteer leader!

One opportunity, "Program Chair," will allow you to orchestrate the programs presented at our Chapter meetings.

The other opportunity, "Vice-President," will put you a mere heartbeat away from the Chapter's highest elected office!

Carpe Diem!!!

For more information on how YOU can reap the benefits of this leadership training, please contact Dick Maemone at 516-496-9127 or maymoan@ concentric.net

New Y o r k / N e w Je r s ey Trail Confe rence -Judy Snyder-

The trail conference was instrumental in the planning and heroic volunteer effort for the opening of the Pochuck Trail section of the AT in Vernon Township, NJ. It comprises a mile-long boardwalk with a 110-foot long wooden suspension bridge between the Pochuck and Wawayanda Mountains. Previously there was no off-road trail in this section of the AT. The area over which it extends is classified by the National Park Service as an "exceptional Resource Value Wetland" comprising 240 acres and a 3,000 foot wide floodplain criss-crossed by tributaries and a quagmire into which a hiker can sink waist-deep, even in dry summer months. It is a habitat for a variety of threatened and

endangered species and offers an extraordinary hiking experience unlike any other on the AT.

Two-thirds of the hiking trails in the Storm King State Park are open once again. Section A and C are open. Section A is west of Rte. 9W; C is south of the cove between Storm King and Crow's Nest.

P e o p l e & P e r s p e c t i v e s -Arlene Scholer-

Volunteers Keep LI-ADK Vibrant : Our excellent newsletter is the result of editor Ellen Kelly's talents that coordinate the multiple informative and interesting articles submitted by officers, heads of committees and individual members. Ellen is a punctual lady who guarantees your newsletter's timely arrival. It keeps you posted on the options available in the Outing Schedule prepared by Sheila Lipshie. Hike leaders provide glimpses into the fun shared on their outings that are coordinated by Laura Terwilliger. You can't have a party if no one comes, so take advantage of the various types and levels of enjoyment offered and register for whatever appeals to you!... ADK-LFs long­time interest in having a chapter website was answered by Mike Vetrano. His exceptional talents have produced a magnificent showcase for our chapter. Have you taken the time to look at www.adkli.org? Mike brought his laptop to the January meeting to show us his efforts that he is still developing.. .Christine Gillen offered to help with publicity in my two-week absence last month. Quick responses to requests are appreciated...Last year Carol Mantell volunteered to obtain new chapter patches that are on sale at meetings, changes are minor: the lighthouse, mountains and water are there in vibrant colors. Buy one for a pack, shirt or jacket - or even to cover a logo on a fabric purse as I have done. Thank you, Carol...When John DiGiacomo said he had to step down as president of the chapter, we were fortunate to have Dick Maeone say he'd move from his position as vice-president to president. Both have served the chapter well and Dick will be looking for more volunteers to help him deal with the multitude of responsibilities. We can row the boat together when more people are willing to help paddle!

Seek New Vistas! When I joined ADK-LI in the late 70's and after two years of Harriman hiking, I recall a conversation with J im Pelzer and Mary and Bill Crump during a water break. We decided to devote one day a month to regular Catskill hikes and so a tradition was born. See the separate article about its continuation.

People and Perspectives (continued...)

Catskill Interpretive Center: In the early 90's a visitor's center, similar to the two beautiful sites with hiking and x-c skiing trails in the Adirondacks, was started along Rt. 28. The only thing there today is a 'day use' sign and a road going nowhere. I believe politics between towns had complicated matters and plans were set aside. "Friends of the Catskill Interpretive Center" is committed to raising both awareness and money to move the project forward. Call Sherret Chase (845 657 2392) at the Catskill Center in Arkville west of Kingston if you have questions or could help in any way.

West Kill Specs & History: The girth of West Kill Mountain in the Catskills is more enormous than I imagined. The land area of this mountain is about 25 square miles which makes it second in line only to Panther. As massive as it is, there is only one trail that traverses it - 7 miles of the Devil's Path which is 24.6 miles long and takes you over Indian Head, Twin, Sugarloaf, Plateau and a shoulder of Hunter on its way to its western terminus on West Kill. The Devil's Path's rugged terrain provided its name because it was thought that only the devil could traverse or inhabit such an inhospitable place. Does anyone remember the years (the early 80's?) and details when the Devil's Path was a popular route for a marathon? If you're ever in the Tannersville area, enjoy the total view of the Devil's Path from the stone church at the Intersection of Rts. 25 and 23D, a stone's throw north of Tannersville. If you appreciate older architecture, you can follow Rt. 25 from the church and see magnificent homes from perhaps the 30's. You'll head southeast and be back on Rt. 23 just east of Tannersville.

Return of a Native Species: The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation has filed for a DEC permit to release 100 American elk - 25 to 35 at a time - in the central Catskills. Elk were once a native species that ranged over nearly all the .state with the exception of the Adirondack High Peaks. They were hunted to extinction by the mid-1800's and the last known wild elk was killed in NY in '46. The Catskill region was chosen, as the best locale because the area would benefit the people as well as being accepted by them. Competition with deer should be minimal. The deer are primarily browsers feeding on the foliage of low-lying plants and woody shrubs. Elk are primarily grazers and their diet consists mostly of grass. (From the Catskill Center News, Spring 2002)

Trivia: Carpool Fees to the northern Catskills can total $13. Add to that the rising gas expenses and you

can understand why drivers need to be reimbursed.. .Is a Leader rescheduling an Outing? Bad weather can cancel an outing on the listed day. If you weren't able to participate on that date, don't hesitate to see if the outing's date was changed. In January, nasty weather canceled my trip on a Saturday and all involved were open for Sunday. Maybe you could have shared in the outing on the alternate date... Cur rent Connections: The main club provides officers with a membership roster for communicating that includes e-mail addresses. In comparing roster e-mails and those on my computer, I was amazed to see that I have 61 addresses that are not on the roster. Your e-mail address is not shared outside of chapter communications. Won't you consider entering your address? Just send it to the main club's coordinator Lorraine@adk.org for inclusion. Sheila Lipshie reports that some leaders offer outings days or weeks after the newsletter deadline. Beyond impromptu hikes, addresses can be used for conservation alerts and late-breaking news. Hike participants are constantly sharing e-mail addresses to permit networking. Won't you join the chapter network?...Recent Catskill History: Have you seen the airplane on the Catskill trail north of. the North/South Lake State Campground? I haven't seen it since the early 80's when it looked like the pilot cruised in to park the plane and walked away. Joellen Elsener found the report from the crash of a Piper in May of ' 83 with a fatality. Flying in bad weather, the pilot's records weren't good; his student certificate had been revoked for violations. The plane collided with trees at about 3400', continued about 500' and came to rest in the wooded area. Over the last 20 years, I've also seen debris from planes on Doubletop and Friday.

Treat yourself with kindness. At least once a year go someplace you've never been before! Join hikes and outings!

Empowerment Hikes Will Take You Beyond Long Island!

-Arlene Scholer-

When I started hiking 26 years ago, I was always at the back of the pack. Endurance was built through two years of hiking in the Hudson Valley and it enables me to finish and rehike the Catskill peaks as well as the Adirondacks in all seasons. A century ago I started a series of empowerment hikes to encourage others eager to go beyond LI and Harriman. The empowerment season started each fall with every monthly Catskill hike going higher and longer than the previous month's outing. And I always promised to take you snowshoeing in January as a graduation hike.

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Empowerment Hikes (continued)...

While crumbling knees have now forced me to restrict my own expectations, the empowerment series will continue. Jerry Licht, Jeff Ritter, Gael Chiarella and Gerry Barskv will be taking turns to place empowerment hikes in future schedules. I am so appreciative that these experienced leaders are willing to donate their time. You'll gain confidence once you witness their skills as capable leaders. And if you're already an able-bodied Catskill hiker, would you consider leading an empowerment trip? Please call Jerry Licht who is our education chairman: (516 797 5729). He'll outline all the guidelines for you.

You'll see Catskill hikes in the schedule throughout the year and the graduated hikes will give newcomers to the Catskills a chance to eventually enjoy the exhilaration and views from summits in all seasons. Perhaps your body is ready to go because you've always had an active lifestyle. If not, to participate in the empowerment options, you only need to work on your own endurance. Just as a child moves from a tricycle to a bicycle, you can gain enough hiking experience in the Hudson Valley to feel comfortable about going to the Catskills. I refuse to say I'll never enjoy another Catskill summit - and I still hope to offer and enjoy moderate Catskill trails with lessons next January for beginner showshoers! Maybe our paths will cross!

Development Proposed for Shawangunk Ridge Luxury Vacation Homes, Golf Course,

Pool and Roads to be Built

(submitted by ADK member Stan Fox)

Approximately one-half of the privately-owned 2,660-acre forest known as the Awosting Reserve at the base of the Shawangunk Ridge has been proposed for the development of cabins, cottages, a golf course, a fitness center, a swimming pool, a restaurant, access roads and related facilities. The owner has spurned efforts by The Nature Conservancy and the Open Space Institute to purchase the property and has contracted with a developer to plan and construct the project. The development is now in the permit and public hearing stage.

The Shawangunk Ridge is truly a unique and beautiful area that draws thousands of visitors each year, is home to 17 rare plant and animal species and includes four rare natural habitats. The Nature Conservancy named the Shawangunk Ridge one of Earth's "last great places".

For more information and what you can do to help prevent this despoliation, please go to www.savetheridge.com

Support Passage of Bigger, Better Bottle Bill

(submitted by ADK member Judith Odishoo) W*^£

Help reduce litter and support recycling by joining the coalition in New York working to pass legislation that would add the nickel deposit to non-carbonated beverages such as spring water,, iced tea, juice and sports drinks. Use the form below to sign up individually or take the issue to an organization you belong to and get their endorsement. Also, please convey your support for this legislation to your representatives in the state Assembly and Senate, including the leaders in those chambers, Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver and Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno.

During the 2002 NYS Beach Cleanup, we asked volunteers to count the beverage containers that had a deposit in NY and those that did not (those covered by this proposed legislation). From 52 sites reporting a total of over 13,000 containers, 37% had the deposit while 63% did not! That's almost 2 to 1. The most common items were spring water bottles from that New England state and those small, barrel-shaped, opaque plastic bottles that contain a "fruit punch that contains no fruit juice" Next time you see beverage containers on the street or beach, take note of what kind they are. You'll be surprised how often they don't have the deposit. Let's get these containers out of the waste stream. With the deposit, they will be redeemed either by the purchaser or by the army of street "gleaners."

Bottle Bill Expansion Coalition

YES! I (We) support the Bigger Better Bottle Bill which would expand the current bottle bill to include non-carbonated beverage containers, turn over unclaimed deposits to the State of NY and strengthen the state's recycling laws. Name of Organization Name: Address:

Phone No.:_ Email:

Fax No.

Return to: Bottle Bill Expansion Coalition c/o NY Public Interest Research Group 107 Washington Ave.

Albany, NY 12210 518-436-0876 or 518 432-6178 (fax)

LONG ISLAND CHAPTER ADIRONDAK MOUNTAIN CLUB

In order to bring the Chapter By-Laws in line with the main Club's By-Laws and to update them to be consistent with present Chapter practices, your Chapter Officers, Chapter Directors and Club Director recommend the following changes:

BYLAWS

ARTICLE I - MEMBERSHIP Current:

Section 3. Chapter members of any class who are at least 18 years of age may serve as Chapter officers, board members , and /o r committee chairpersons or members, and shall be entitled to vote on all Chapter business . Proxy voting shall not be permit ted .

Proposed:

Section 3. Chapter members of any class who are at least 18 years of age may serve as Chapter officers, board, members, and/or committee chairpersons or members. Members shall be entitled to vote on all Chapter business at membership meetings. Proxy voting shall not be permitted.

ARTICLE II - ORGANIZATION Current:

Section 2. The Board of Directors shall consist of'the four officers, six Board members, and the Chapter Governor or Governors, all of whom must be members of the Chapter. No member of the Board of Directors shall receive or accept financial compensation for duties as a member of the Board. The term of office for the six Board Members shall be for two years, three elected each year. They shall assume their duties at the end of the annual meeting at which they are elected and serve unt i l the end of the second next annual meeting. The number of Chapter Governors and their term of office shall be as defined by the Club.

Proposed:

Section 2. The Chapter Board of Directors shall consist of the four officers, six Board members, and the Club Director, all of whom must be members of the Chapter, and shall be entitled to vote on all Chapter business at Board of Directors meetings. Proxy voting shall not be permitted. No member of the Board of Directors shall receive or accept financial compensation for duties as a member of the Board. The term of office for the six Board Members shall be for two years, three elected each year. They shall assume their duties at the end of the annual meeting at which they are elected and serve until the end of the second next annual meeting. The

number of Club Directors and their term of office shall be as defined by the Club.

Current:

Section 3. The President, Vice President, and Secretary shall be eligible to serve in the same capacity for only three consecutive terms. The t reasurer shall be eligible to serve in that same capacity without l imit. The six Board Members shall be eligible to serve in the same capacity for only two consecutive terms. The Chapter Governor(s) shall serve only the period as defined by the Club.

Proposed:

Section 3. The President, Vice President, and Secretary shall be eligible to serve in the same capacity for only three consecutive terms. The treasurer shall be eligible to serve in that same capacity without limit. The six Board Members shall be eligible to serve in the same capacity for only two consecutive terms. The Club Director shall serve only the period as defined by the Club.

ARTICLE III - ELECTIONS Current:

Section 1. A nominat ing committee of at least three members shall be appointed by the President , with the consent of the Board, before July 1. The committee shall submit its slate of officers, Board Members, and Chapter Governor(s) to the membersh ip at the last meeting before the annual meet ing .

Proposed:

Section 1. A nominating committee of at least three members shall be appointed by the President, with the consent of the Board, before July 1. The committee shall submit its slate of officers, Board Members, and Club Director to the membership at the last meeting before the annual meeting.

Current:

Section 2. At the meeting before the annual meeting nomination will be accepted from the floor for officers, Board Members, and Chapter Governor(s) by five members eligible to vote and present for each nominat ion and with the consent of the nominee.

Proposed:

Section 2. At the last meeting before July 1, nominations for officers, Board Members and the Club Director will be accepted from the

floor. A candidate must be nominated by at least five members who eligible to vote and present, and the nomination must be made with the consent of the nominee.

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Current: BYLAWS (continued.. .)

Section 3. The Secretary shall send a list of all the nominees to all the members of the Chapter with the notice of the annual meting at least two weeks before the annua l meeting. Elections shall be de termined by ballots cast at the annual meeting.

Proposed:

S e c t i o n 3 . T h e S e c r e t a r y s h a l l s e n d a l i s t o f a l l t h e n o m i n e e s to a l l t h e m e m b e r s o f t h e C h a p t e r w i t h t h e n o t i c e o f t h e a n n u a l m e e t i n g a t l e a s t t w o w e e k s b e f o r e t h e a n n u a l m e e t i n g , o r p l a c e a n o t i c e i n t h e S e p t e m b e r -O c t o b e r M o u n t a i n e e r . E l e c t i o n s s h a l l b e d e t e r m i n e d b y b a l l o t s c a s t a t t h e a n n u a l m e e t i n g .

ARTICLE IV - ADMINISTRATION Current:

Section 4. The Treasurer shall collect dues from all members and shall pay such port ion to the Club as required by Club regulations, shall account for all monies received and expended by means of a report at the annua l meeting, and shall perform such other duties as are customary to the office. The Treasurer shall be one of the officers who may sign checks and drafts of the organization, and shall also chair the membersh ip committee.

Proposed:

Section 4. The Treasurer shall account for all monies received and expended by means of a report at the annual meeting, and shall perform such other duties as are customary to the office. The Treasurer shall be one of the officers, or other members, who may sign checks and drafts of the organization.

Current:

Section 5. The President, with the advice and consent of the Board, shall appoint the chairpersons of all s tanding committees except Membership. The s tanding committees shall be: Conservation, Hospitality, Membership, Outings, Publicity, and Trail Maintenance. In addition, the President , with the advice and consent of the Board, may establish such other committees and appoint their chairpersons as necessary for the work of the Chapter. Their terms of office shall coincide with the term of the President unless terminated by the action of the President with the consent of the Board.

Proposed:

Section 5 . The President, with the advice and consent of the Board, shall appoint the chairpersons of all standing committees. The standing committees shall be: Conservation,

Education, Hospitality, Mountaineer, Membership, Outings, Programs, Publicity, Trail Conference and Trail Maintenance. In addition, the President, with the advice and consent of the Board, may establish such other committees and appoint their chairpersons as necessary for the work of the Chapter. Their terms of office shall coincide with the term of the President unless terminated by the action of the President with the consent of the Board.

Current:

Section 7. The Chapter Governor(s) shall at tend scheduled meetings of the Club and shall represent the Chapter's views and report to the Board of Directors and to the Chapter membership at their next meetings. In the event a proxy is required, the President shall designate a member of the Board to act in that capacity.

Proposed:

Section 7. The Club Director shall attend scheduled meetings of the Club and shall represent the Chapter's views and report to the Chapter Board, of Directors and to the Chapter membership at their next meetings. In the event that the Club Director cannot attend a meeting of the Club, the Alternate Chapter Director shall attend instead.

ARTICLE VI- AMENDMENTS Current:

Section 1. The bylaws may be amended at any meeting of the Chapter at which a quorum is present by a two-thirds vote of the eligible members present and voting, provided the proposed amendment shall have been approved by the Board and shall have been sent to the members with the notice of the meet ing.

Proposed:

Section 1. The bylaws may be amended at any meeting of the Chapter at which a quorum is present by a two-thirds vote of the eligible members present and voting, provided the proposed amendment shall have been approved by the Board and shall have been sent to the members with the notice of the meeting. For minor, and, or, immaterial changes to the bylaws, the proposed amendments need not be sent to the members in advance of the meeting.

The membership will vote on the proposed Chapter By-Law changes at the March 13 general meeting. A copy of the proposed changes will be available at that t ime for viewing prior to the vote. Questions? Contact Dick Maemone, Chapter President, 516-496-9127 01' email maymoan@ concentr ic .net .

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Long Island A D K Outing Schedule for March & April 2003

Hike Leaders: Don't forget the Release of Liability! Send it to Sheila Lipshie, 74 Richfield St., Plainview, NY 11803. Send "Looking Back" to Sheila or directly to Laura Terwilliger, 44 No. Howell's Pt. Rd., Bellport, NY 11713, rterwilkS?msn.com.

B Informal weekday hikes throughout the year on a more-or-less regular basis. Usually on Wednesdays, but occasionally on other days, depending on weather, personal schedules and whim. Destinations to be determined a few days before each hike. Call to let us know you're interested and we'll notify you of plans. Carol Mantell, 845-265-2598 before 9 pm or Sheila Lipshie 516-349-7910 or evenings before 10 pm.

B February 22 Saturday. Beginner snowshoe lessons w/hike. With snow in the Catskills, we'll learn to snowshoe on a moderate trail along a ridge of reasonable elevation. If there's no snow in the mountains, we'll hike in the Hudson Valley. Snowshoes can be rented from EMS; call far in advance for reservation. Must own instep crampons or full crampons. (Contact Eastern Mountain Sports; Carle Place 516-747-7360 and Smithhaven 631-724-1933; mail order from Campmor catalog: 1-800-525-4784). Register by Thursday, Feb. 20. (L) Arlene Scholer, 516-354-0231 before 9 pm.

March 1 Saturday. Leader's choice. Full winter gear required. Reg. by Thurs., Feb. 27. (L) Jerry Licht 516-797-5729 before 9 pm.

March 1 Saturday. Leader's choice. Hike, snowshoe or x-country ski depending on conditions. (L) Gerry Barsky 516-624-3413 or e-mail gael@yokibics.com.

B+ March 2 Sunday. Halcott Mt. in the Catskills. This is an easy bushwhack and a chance to try your compass skills. We'll be traveling at a moderate pace, to help those not too familiar with no-trail walking and finding that little box (canister) in the middle of nowhere. This is still winter and full winter gear is required. Call leader Rich Niegocki 631-473-3402 or e-mail ADKWARLORD@AOL.com before Fri., Feb. 28 for details.

B March 2 Sunday. Anthony's Nose - Camp Smith Trail. This is a favorite of mine in any seasons. Join me on a 4 to 5 mi. moderately paced hike over rugged terrain with lots of elevation gain and many viewpoints into the Hudson Valley. Depending on conditions, snowshoes and/or crampons may be needed. Shuttle required. Meet at the bottom of Anythony's Nose on Route 9D immediately north of the Bear Mt. Bridge. Call for meeting time and to register. (L) Margaret Freifeld, 914-666-0710 or m.freifeld@att.net. ,

C March 2 Sunday. Long Island Hike. Paumanok Trail - Manorville-Riverhead Hills, 6-8 miles in hilly central Pine Barrens, taking in Wildwood Lak.e, a small portion of dwarf pine plains and surrounding woodlands. Register by Saturday, March 1. (L) Paul Lanzilotta, 631-864-2576 before 10 pm.

March 6 (1st Thursday of the month 7 pm.) It's fun, it's exciting, it's cross training at its finest. Climb indoors at Li's premier indoor rock gym. Come for the experience, the fitness or to begin to develop the multiplicity of skills that will allow you to add indoor climbing to your repertoire of regularly practiced activities. An outdoor rock climb will be scheduled for the spring. No experience or particular fitness level required. Experienced climbers welcomed and encouraged. Limited space, register in advance. Gerry Barsky 516-624-3413 or e-mail gael@vokibics.com. Climbing facility use fee required.

March 8 Saturday. Catskill backcountry ski tour or snowshoe. From Prediger Road into Echo Lake and Overlook Mountain. Strenuous outing with full winter gear. Reg. by Thursday March 6, (L) Rich Moore 914-496-7667.

B March 8 Saturday. Mystery Hike; Hudson Valley destination yet to be determined. Come and enjoy a moderately paced outing with perhaps 5-8 miles in all. No go in rain. Reg. no later than noon on Friday, March 7, (L) Arlene Scholer 516-354-0231 before 9 pm.

March 13 Thursday. Come to our monthly meeting at St. Elizabeth's Church. Details on last page.

March 14-16 2003 Friday-Sunday. Winter Weekend in the Catskills at the Full Moon. Call Full Moon at 845-254-5117 asap to make your lodging reservation and call Carol Mantell, 845-265-2598 before 9 pm to get detailed information.

B March 15 Saturday. Harriman Park: Appalachian Trail from Tiorati Circle to Black Mountain. Great views of Silvermine Lake. About 9 miles. Rain cancels. Register by Thursday, March 13. (L) Micheline Kagan, 718-746-4753 or mfkag(a).hotmail.com.

B March 22 Saturday. Mount Taurus and down the Nelsonville Trail. Snowshoes and/or crampons may be required. Car spot required. Hot chocolate at my place afterwards if the group desires. Register by Thursday, March 20. (L) Carol Mantell, 845-265-2598 before 9 pm.

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Long Island ADK Outing Schedule for March & April 2003 (continued...)

B April 5 Saturday. Hubbard Perkins Conservation Area. Lovely varied area in Putnam County. We will do a loop over Round Hill and East Mt. Snowshoes and/or crampons may be required. Reg. by Thurs/, April 3. (L) Carol Mantell, 845-265-2598 before 9 pm.

B April 6 Sunday. Harriman Park: Bald Mountain on the Timp-Torn and Ramapo Dunderberg trails or possible car spotting for the Cornell Mine Trail. 5 to 6 miles. Reg. by Friday, April 4. (L) Micheline Kagan, 718-746-4753 or mfkag@hotmail.com.

April 10 Thursday. Come to our monthly meeting at St. Elizabeth's Church. Details on last page.

April 11-13 Fri-Sun. Chicago Walk: Amtrak train trip to Chicago. Total round trip cost $66 to $160 depending on available discount. 15 hours walking in the Big Easy. Lunch at the Hancock Bldg. Boat trip, walk the streets. A fantastic adventure! (L) Ron Engasser, 631-289-5375 orusron@juno.com

B April 12 Saturday. Shawangunk Surprise. 8 to 10 mile hike in the general area of Minnewaska State Park. Register by Thursday, April 10. (L) Jeff Ritter, 718-279-3431 before 10 pm.

B April 12 Saturday. Mystery Hike: Hudson Valley destination yet to be determined. Come and enjoy a moderately paced outing with perhaps 5-8 miles in all. No go in rain. Register no later than noon on Friday,. April 11. (L) Arlene Scholer 516-354-0231 before 9 pm.

A-April 13 (Pam Sunday). North Dome and Sherrill. Semieasy Catskill bushwhack with a shuttle required. Without the foliage this will be an exciting challenge for those who have not wandered around in the middle of nowhere trying to find little boxes (canisters) attached to trees. Compass skills and self-confidence will prove very rewarding. Call leader Rich Niegocki, 631-473-3402 or e-mail ADKWARLORD@AOL.com before Thursday, April 10 for details.

A April 23-27 Wednesday-Sunday. Hike the Appalachian Trail from the Mass. Pike to North Adams, Mass. This 42.3 mile section will include 3 nights camping, take you over Mount Greylock, the highest point in Massachusetts, and bring you to the doorstep of Vermont's Long Trail. Total up climb is a mile or a bit more. Longest day will be 14.3 miles but only 1250' of climbing. Requires some previous backpacking experience. Call/e-mail ASAP but not later than Wednesday, April 16. (L) Rich Ehli, 631-079-5646 or richehli@optonline.net. 7 .

B April 26 Saturday (raindate April 27 Sunday). Trail maintenance trip for our chapter's section of the Long Path on Schunemunk Mountain. Meet at exit 32 at 8 am. Bring lunch and water. Bring gloves and any pruning tools you have (clippers, branch lopers, limb saws, etc. - no axes!). Must register with (L) Jim Purdy 631-754-6989 or ipurdy@suffolk.lib.ny.us. Be sure to leave your phone number! Note: I will be away until Thursday, April 24!

B May 3 Saturday. Orange County Bike Tour. Moderate, approx. 35 miles on gentle, quiet backcountry roads in the Pine Island area. (L) Rich Moore, 914-496-7667.

B May 4 Sunday. Northern section of the L.I. Greenbelt Trail, 8-9 miles from Rt. 25 in Smithtown to Sunken Meadow Park. Enjoy scenic Nissequogue River and State Park, Sweet Briar Nature Center and bluffs overlooking Long Island Sound. Register by Sat. May 3. (L) Paul Lanzilotta, 631-864-2576 before 10 pm.

REGISTRATION FOR ALL OUTINGS IS REQUIRED Leader may refuse to take anyone not registered or prepared. Registered participants are expected to show up or call the leader to cancel.

GROUND RULES Minors (younger than 18 years) must have the signed permission of parent or guardian. All participants are responsible for their own safety and comfort. Food, snacks, water and extra clothing/raingear must be carried by the participant. Check with hike leader to learn of any special requirements for the hike. Hiking boots are recommended for all ADK outings.

CARPOOL RATES Suggested minimums: Harriman $10, Shawagunks $15, Catskills $20, Adirondacks $45. Drivers set the final rate.

HIKE CLASSIFICATIONS A: Strenuous, long distances over rugged terrain with lots of climbing or more than 35 miles on bike. B: Moderate, shorter distances with less climbing or 10-30 miles on bike. C: Easy, short distance over flat terrain at a leisurely pace or 10 miles or less on bike. Suitable for beginners.

Hike classifications are subjective. If you are uncertain if you are up to the hike, consult the leader.

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Learn H o w to Back -Jerry Licht-

The LI ADK is once again offering itsl'popular introduction to backpacking instruction. The instruction will consist of one evening and an overnight in the Catskills with an optional trip to Campmor (gear buying not optional, how could you resist!) and day hike in Harriman. The clinic is geared towards people with little or no experience and will cover basic gear selection and use, trip planning and more. Most of the learning (and all the fun) will occur in the field so if you are not serious about the overnight, this clinic is not for you. The clinic will take place on Thursday, May 1st from 6:30-9:00 p.m. and the overnight is scheduled for May 10 & 11. Both dates are tentative and will be confirmed. Fee is $15. Please send check with SASE including your phone number to Jerry Licht, 3 Francine Drive North, Massapequa, NY 11758. Call 516-797-729 before 9:00 p.m. if you have any questions.

All who could not make last year's outing and any class participants from previous years are welcome to join the overnight, space permitting.

Cross-Country Skiing in Fahnestock -Diane Grunthal-

Cross-country skiing at Fahnestock State Park is definitely well worthwhile. The trails are nicely groomed and the rolling hills are just enough challenge to provide a hearty winter workout. At the end of your cross-country day, Allen and I highly recommend the 2.5 mile snowshoe trail along the AT to a lookout. Although the signs rate the trail "Most Difficult," this snowshoe for 2.5 miles is through gently rolling terrain. Total elevation gain is about 200 feet.

Conservation Report -Jeanne Millspaugh-

Clean Air Legislation

We all need and want clean air. In our Adirondack State Park area, where the ecosystem is more delicate and complex, the atmosphere is constantly being destroyed by pollutants such as mercury, carbon monoxide, sulfurs and nitrates. Unfortunately, the air in the Adirondack State Park is getting worse, which means continued destruction and elimination of plant, animal and fish life. You can clearly see the results of acid rain when looking at the state of our forests,

poisoned lakes and ponds. The Clean Air Policy wants to prevent further damage to the environment. Please help in the fight for Clean Air by writing to:

Governor George E. Pataki State Capitol

Albany, NY 12224

Individual letters are much stronger than petitions. Please state in your letter that you want Clean Air for our Adirondack State Park.

^ ^ C H I N C O T E A G U E

Friday-Monday, September 26-29, 2003

What is Offered?

• Guided Kayaking and Canoeing • Walking the trails of this island with the famous wild ponies • Spectacular migratory birding on Chincoteague and Assateague Islands • Miles of Atlantic Ocean beachfront for walking and relaxation • Good times and delicious dinners in a variety of great local restaurants • Super comfy accommodations in two adjacent, very spacious waterfront homes • Sit and sip while you enjoy the sunsets from the porches and docks of the houses

What Do You Need to Do?

• Don't waste any time! Act today since there are only 18 spaces available! • You can secure a reservation by mailing a non­refundable check ASAP for $100 made out to Arlene Scholer at 17 Willow Rd., New Hyde Park, NY 11040. • Total cost: $186 per person for 3 nights • The first 18 people to respond with checks will be guaranteed a place. Additional names will be wait listed. • Questions? Call Arlene at 516-354-0231 or write: arlmar(qjatt.net • Mandatory meeting for participants at 7 p.m. prior to ADK's May 8th meeting.

Last year's participants can vouch for the good times!

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L O O K I N G B A C K -Laura Terwilliger-

Looking Back Trip Reports may be emailed to Laura: lookingback@,earthlink.net (or mail to 44 No. Howell's Pt. Rd., Bellport NY 11713)

Hudson Valley-Rockefeller State Park: A thin cover of new snow made it easy to compare the tracks of animal prints with those in a book - fox prints were an easy match. We didn't need the book to identify tracks of wild turkeys, deer squirrel and rabbit. Live deer were also seen when we stopped for lunch. Micheline Kagan, Adele Sherwood and Barbara & Tom Reilly joined Arlene Scholer for 6 hrs. in the fresh air at Rockefeller State Park and Rockwood, an adjacent piece of Rockefeller property that overlooks the Hudson. Take advantage of these parks that are only 45 minutes from the carpool. They offer XC skiing trails and Rockwood has some great sledding slopes, too.

Jan. 11: Catskill Beginner Snowshoeing. The BEST snow conditions were waiting for members Pat Wachter, Claire Weinberg, Lou Visconti, Georgia Dakis and guests Laura Hersh and Mark Obbie who joined leader Arlene Scholer. Besides all the snow underfoot, the frozen branches were laden with so much more snow that we worked hard going over, under and around branches that blocked the trail up Panther to Giant Ledge. Besides contending with trail conditions, these snowshoers also had fun learning various types of uphill and downhill footwork to help them navigate. The freedom of glissading through deep snow was the best! These snowshoe 'graduates' are now surely able to join any Catskill trip!

Jan. 25: Winter Walkabout. Jeanne Millspaugh, Erik Jaklitsch and former member Henry Schumacher, who now lives ten minutes from our destination, joined Arlene Scholer, leader, and shared a marvelous day of snowshoeing. There were clear skies overhead and little wind as we enjoyed a guided outing by the naturalist/educator for the Audubon Buttercup Sanctuary near the end of the Taconic. The rolling terrain's snow gave Jeanne and Eric a marvelous introduction to snowshoeing from mid-morning to late afternoon. In our travels we saw 8 beautiful bluebirds enjoying the sun's warmth atop a tree. Underfoot there were many pathways from animal activities. Larry Federman, our guide, even explained the differences in deer scat. The lighter color reflects their poor diet with snow covering so much. The normal loose scat is that of a female and balled deer scat is

that of a male. At our hillside lunch break we could look across the Hudson to Overlook Mt. We had joked that a bench would've added comfort to the scenic spot. In discussing our donation to Audubon for the free guide service, Larry told us we would direct our donation to Audubon NY and specify that our donation was being made for a bench. Maybe it will be in place by the time we return!

Dec. 1 Manhattan Walk. On a cold and brisk day, Ron Engasser (L), Carol Hageman, Inge Stone & Gaylaw Fahquatt walked the quiet streets of the Big Apple. We drifted through the antique markets on Broadway as we wound our way down to Washington Square and a breakfast of hot coffee, eggs and hash browns. Then we moved on to SOHO and to Chinatown. After walking around the Manhattan Correctional Institution (a prison) and seeing no smiling faces, we passed Police Plaza and on to the Brooklyn Bridge where, surprisingly, we met some folks who claimed to live in Brooklyn! We then went through some skyscrapers and old churches and walked through the World Financial Center (just opened), for a bird's eye view of the World Trade Center crater. Finally, we walked to Wall Street and the Seaport and ended in Little Italy for a fine brunch of toasted oysters and concrete cookies. The group ended up hiking many miles in underground subway tunnels because of construction before returning to Penn Station. Unfortunately, we encountered no wild animals or interesting rock formations.

N o m a t t e r h o w l o n g t h e w i n t e r

s p r i n g i s s u r e t o f o l l o w . Guinean Proverb

From the Editor

Articles of interest are always welcome. Please send them to:me: Ellen Kelly, 3 Birchwood Court, Apt. 5B, Mineola, NY 11501 or e-mail nyekele(o).aol.com; phone 516-873-1860.

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P L A N A H E A D

It 's t ime to think about lodging for the Brothers Trail Maintenance trip. M a y 23-26 (Memorial Weekend). Mountain Meadows m a y still have some space. There ' s also Trails End and a new place, The Hostel (518-576-2030). Weekend will include a professionally supervised work project as well as our usual trail maintenance on the Brothers Trail in the Adirondack High Peaks. Call for further information. Leader Herb Coles 516-897-5306 before 9 pm.

July 6-12 Annual White Mountain Hike. This year we will hike up to Carter Notch Hut accompanied by lama's and their leaders. Since we must have sleeping bags at Carter Notch and prepare our own dinner, they will carry the bags and food. The lama 's will also carry the bags and any extra stuff down to store for us for the next day. W e will hike out over the three Carters and then return to Pinkham Notch. The next day we will hike up to Lake of the Clouds for a two night stay. We have the option there of hiking Mt. Washington, Mt. Jefferson and Mt. Monroe. The following day w e will hike to Mizpah Hut, stay the night, then hike out and return home. For prices call Carol Mantell 845-265-2598 before 9 pm.

Sept. 26-29 Friday-Monday. Long weekend on the island of Chincoteague, Virginia. For details, see the promotional piece in this newsletter.

Mark your calendar! The LIADK Columbus Day Outing 2003 is scheduled for Friday, October 10 (arrival) to Monday, October 13 (departure). Prices and specific information will be available soon.

a C L U B ] D A Y

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As a member ol an outdoor organization, we Know \ou love the outdoors as much as we do—and Club Da\ is our wav ol savinsi

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20% off in stock items only. Bring proof of membership, and we fl take 20% off your purchase1

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Long Island Mountaineer - March & April 2003

To join the LI-ADK or make an address change, please call ADK Headquarters, 1-800-395-8080 or request an application by mail from: ADK, 814 Goggins Road, Lake George, NY 12845-4117. If you have any questions on membership, please call John White at 516-654-2016. —-

The deadline for the May & June Mountaineer is March 31st

Meeting site: St. Elizabeth's Church, 175 Wolf Hill Road, Melville at 8:00 p.m. on the second Thursday of the month (except for July, August and October). Directions from Northern State Parkway: Exit 41 (Wolf Hill Road). From the west make a left, from the east make a right onto Wolf Hill Road; go straight, passing through the 5-corner intersection. Immediately after St. Anthony's make a right into the driveway of St. Elizabeth's. Park in rear lot and enter at lighted doors. Directions from Route 110: at the intersection of Route 110 & Schwab Road (aka) Wolf Hill Road, which is one mile north of Northern State and 3/4 mile south of Jericho Turnpike (Rite Aid on west side of 110) go east; after three sets of lights St. Elizabeth's will be on the left; take second driveway to rear of building. Come early at 7:45 p.m. to socialize and network.

These are the dates for upcoming meetings at St. Elizabetn^s* Church. Be sure to mark them on your calendar.

March 13th - How can LIADK'ers stay in shape between weekend hiking adventures? Come hear Dell Davis, Director of sport conditioning for Eastern Athletic Clubs of NY tell you how. A personal trainer and fitness expert for over a quarter of a century, Dell is a champion body builder and Master in Tae Kwon Do. Dell's talk will cover cardiovascular conditioning, strength training, stretching, plyometrics, nutrition, hydration and supplementation. He will also answer the question "Do I need a gym to .stay in shape?" Put down that beer, drop those potato chips^get off that couch and JOIN US for a heart pumping, muscle-flexing and thought provoking presentation!"

NB: Over the March 13-April 30 period, Dell's Club, Eastern Athletic Clubs of NY will offer LIADK members a FREE two-week trial membership at any one of 3 Long Island clubs in Melville, Dix Hills and Blue Point. WHAT A DEAL!

April 10th - Programming was not available at press time, but don't miss this opportunity to socialize and welcome Spring with your fellow hikers.

John White - Membership LI-ADK 143 Maple Avenue Medford, NY

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