L O N G I S L A N D

M O U N T A I N E E R

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Adirondack Mountain Club Long Island Chapter

2001-2002 Executive Committee

President John DiGiacomo 631-724-8578

Vice-President Ann McMahon 631-265-1288

Treasurer BudKazdan 631-549-5015

Secretary Nancy Hodson 516-692-5754

Director Martha McDermott 631-581-4574

Director Carol McHugh 718-423-4083

Alternate Director 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 516-671-3496 Dick Maemone 516-496-9127

Jim Purdy 631-754-6989 Committee Chairs

Conservation June Fait 516-897-5306

Education Jerry Licht 516-797-5729

Hospitality Arlene Scholer 516-354-0231

Mountaineer Ellen Kelly 516-294-1462

Membership John White 631-654-2016

Outings Sheila Lipshie 516-349-7910

Programs Carol McHugh 718-423-4083

Publicity Arlene Scholer 516-354-0231

Publicity Flyers Susin Packert 631-952-6357

Trail Conference Judy Snyder 516-826-5261

Trail Maintenance Herb Coles 516-897-5306

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 2

C o n s e r v a t i o n R e p o r t

-June Fait-

This month I have a little of this and a little of that. First, some local news. The Long Island Chapter has joined The Hauppauge Springs Coalition. The Coalition was formed for the purpose of preserving land south of Veterans Highway and west of Old Willets Path that contains some of the headwaters of the Nissequoge River. Part of the land is in Smithtown, part in Islip. Some is already owned by the two towns and some is in private hands. The private land has been placed on the Suffolk County Acquisition List, appraised and negotiations have begun. You will be kept informed as to the status of the negotiations. I am a member of Clearwater, an organization that is active in cleaning up the Hudson River. In their last newsletter they are advocating for the closure of the Indian Point Nuclear Power Plant until security is upgraded and a viable evacuation plan is in place. Did you realize that Long Island is within 50 miles of the plant which puts us in the "peak injury zone" in case of nuclear accident? This is according to the NRC. So is NYC. This does make you think. Up in the Adirondacks, the UMP for Dix and Giant Wilderness is almost ready. The ADK supports a group size limited to 15 for day use and 8 for overnight camping. They also support the ban on open campfires. Now, triptics are required for both day and overnight use in the High Peaks Wilderness. The ADK asks that they only be required for overnight use in the Dix and Giant wilderness as they are not as heavily used. The next issue will feature a conservation column by Brian Troy, a law student interested in enviromental law. This should make good reading.

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3 5 T H B I R T H D A Y

F O R L O N G I S L A N D A D K

Last year was the 35th anniversary of the founding of our chapter. 'Two of our "founding fathers/mothers" are still members!! This year, for a belated celebration, I would like to put out an anniversary issue similar to the one that was published for our 10th & 25th anniversaries. Martha McDermott has agreed to help with the "Time Line". We need one or two people to look over back copies of ADIRONDACK (supplied) and write a synopsis of what went on since the last anniversary issue.

Call or email June Fait 516-897-5306 orjune.-.herb@worldnet.att.net

P E O P L E A N D P E R S P E C T I V E S

Arlene Scholer

CATSKILL SNOWSHOEING IF ENOUGH SNOWFLAKES APPEAR...This winter didn't set records for snowshoeing in the early winter but The Catskill Center located in Arkville (845 586 2611) is offering a day should you want to participate. On March 9th there'll be an outing to North and South Lake in Greene County (west of the Saugerties exit of the thruway). Here's the description from my newsletter: "We' l l have the opportunity to explore Badman Cave, Sunset Rock, the Catskill Mt. House site and other areas around the lake. Please register and reserve snowshoes by calling Aaron Bennett at the Center. To get to the campground, follow State Route 23A to Haines Falls and turn onto North/South Lake Rd which is Greene Co. Rte. 18. Travel about 2 miles to the gate entrance and park. Meet at 10am. Bring lunch, plenty of water and dress warm." The area of North/South Lake is rolling and should not present a problem.

WHO'S DOING WHAT?... YOSHIKO TAKESHITA, newly retired, finished climbing the Catskill peaks over 3500' in elevation last August. PAULINE LAVERY, PETER COWAN and JEFF RITTER are hoping to finish this year or surely by 2003. Those who finish are honored at the annual Catskill 3500 dinner and this year it will be on Saturday, April 6 in Kingston. Anyone who doesn't receive the 3500 newsletter and would like to attend, contact me for the information by mid-March: 516 354 0231 or arlmar@att.net Former chapter president JOY SALBERG and PAUL LOWY celebrated the Nov. 3 birth of their grandchildren, twins Rebecca and Zachary, born to Deanna and Ted, their daughter and son-in-law. All good wishes to the entire family!...Here are some examples of valuable volunteers stepping up the the plate: JUNE FAIT, our conservation chair, requested assistance and a 4th year law student, BRIAN TROY, who is interested in environmental law volunteered....JUDY SNYDER, newly retired, has volunteered to represent our chapter at meetings for the NY/NJ Trail Conference. Too bad we don't have a program for 'airline advantage miles' since she'll be attending meetings in NJ. . . .RICH EHLL also newly retired, will take up the campaign for a chapter website and also become programs chairman as CAROL McHUGH retires from that post in June....Helping hands for hospitality are provided by CAROL MANTELL who is doing the food for February, PAULINE LAVERY who is covering May and ADELE SHERWOOD who is covering June. Closing down the hospitality spread was done by BARABARA REILLY and TERRY and STEVE SHAPIRO at the January meeting. JEANNE MILLSPAUGH will do the February meeting. One

more volunteer in April and two in June will complete this half-year. Call me to volunteer: 516 354 0231.

RANDOM SCOOTS.. . In the main club's magagzine, Adirondac, you open to the editor's column called Random Scoots. Here 's the history on that title. The Adirondack Forty-Sixers produced a CD which presents an interview with Grace Hudowalski, "the first woman to attain the 46er distinction and the ninth person overall. Grace and her husband Ed (#6) were founding members of the Forty-Sixers of Troy and together laid the cornerstone for the present Forty-Sixer organization." She served as historian for more than 40 years and only recently retired in her 9th decade of life. She wrote to all aspiring 46ers and letters from children, were her favorites. She produced more than 1600 letters annually and the ones I received were full pages of single spaced typed thoughts. Astonishing! In the CD interview, Grace explains the history of 'random scoots.' In 1948 the Forty-Sixers of Troy moved to the Adirondack loj. Members were required to climb one mountain a year and write a report about it. Twenty-one peaks were trailless then. Random scoots, as a synonym for bushwhacks, was a colorful term of Orson Scofield Phelps for whom Phelps Mountain is named. A more difficult bushwhack was a 'rigmarole of a random scoots.' Grace also humorously speaks of climbing trees to verify locations since she never cared for compasses and cared even less for maps!

WILL WARMER WEATHER SET YOU - IN MOTION?... .With severe winter days behind us, hiking is more appealing to novice hikers. Sunblock is appropriate for all hikers no matter the area as well as insect repellent once the warmer months arrive. No matter the area of preference, 'jeans' are never considered safe. Once wet, they will sap your body core of heat which can lead to hypothermia even in the summer months. Variations on nylon are popular. If you are starting out on LI where outings are generally easy-going, you can hike with sneakers or soft boots and protective socks: "Thorlo-type or wool or synthetic socks with a synthetic liner sock. Your pack needs to hold 2 quarts of water, snacks, lunch, rain gear or at least an umbrella, basic first aid needs, clothing options, tissues and hopefully a map and compass. If you're headed to the Hudson Valley, you need to have adequate boots with good tread on your feet since you'll be doing 'roller coaster' hiking which is mini-ups and downs. In addition to the items above, you'll need warmer clothing options for spring hiking including hat and gloves and better rain gear than an umbrella as well as a flashlight and a whistle. When in doubt, speak with a hike leader. Catskill needs are not covered here since the area is not appropriate for novice hikers who haven't built endurance elsewhere. Ask questions at any meeting or call any leader for more details, (cont. pg.5)

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P e o p l e a n d P e r s p e c t i v e s (continued.. .)

WE DO REACH OUT...LI has about 180 zip codes and our current staff of publicity helpers is covering 56 of them. Can we make a dent in the remaining 124 areas? See the zip code article in this issue. Perhaps you can cover a zip code where you live or even where you work. ADK- LI is blessed with volunteers who fill every official position on the board and keep us afloat with unlimited help on every committee. Since we don't contact potential members by listing our outings in the newspapers, publicity volunteers are highly valued as they donate time at their leisure.

CATSKILL PLAQUE REQUEST WITH A MID-MARCH DEADLINE...I would like to cover the history of the searches for the Catskill plaque over the years. If you found the plaque or wrote the clues to re-hide it, please send me a description of the fun you had. Include the name of the mountain involved and names of people. Write to me: 17 Willow Road, New Hyde Park, NY 11040 or use e-mail: arlmar@att.net.

A CLOSING THOUGHT...Last November a travel writer in the NY TIMES, Lisa Fugano, expressed these thoughts: "Since Sept. 11 I 'd been feeling as though I had to live a little smaller, dream a little less. But wild places have a way of restoring me, of reminding me that I, too, am of the natural world... .1 eased my kayak into the water. The incoming tide bucked and jostled me, the pelicans floated by like birds from another age, and all around me, and within, I sensed the vigorous pulse of life."

. ^ I . v * ; E l l e n v i l l e I c e C a v e s in J u l y : ! v £.":

> ^ i A G r e a t P l a c e t o C o o l O f f ! J ^

-Tom Farre-

With perfect summer weather, we met at the "firehouse" and hiked a strenuous, 6-mile loop up Ice Caves Mountain in Ellenville. Our destination? The big ice cave and the Grand Canyon. This hike was done jointly with the Mohican Chapter. Joan McNulty of Mohican and 1 led the inter-chapter group who were amiable and friendly. Fellow LI hikers Herb Coles and June Fait, Carol Mantell, Susan Packert Arlene Scholer, and Yoshiko Takeshita were joined by Mohican hikers Carol Harting, Pat Johnston, Steve Klepner, Kathie Laug, Sam Mylnar, and Barbro Thelemarch..

After tuning off the Smiley Carriageway onto Ice Caves Mountain, the "trail" was overgrown, more like a bushwack, but the group was prepared. Multiple herd paths crisscross the mountain and the maps aren't vety good, so it's best to go with someone who knows the area. Watch out for deep crevices alongside the trail!

We like this hike for the isolated, rugged beauty of Ice Caves Mountain, a less visited part of the Shawungunks that requires a permit from the Nature Conservancy. The main attractions are amazing views of the Catskills from the Grand Canyon, and interesting geologic features called ice caves. Apparently just big cracks in the rock, ice caves are fun in the summer because they're approx. 55 degrees all year round. In fact, on our hike in early July the floor of the big cave was still covered by snow and ice. (Winter hiking in this area could be dangerous, as snow and ice can obscure deep crevices.) Some brave hikers shimmied down into the chilly ice cave, aided by headlamps and jackets.

After lunch, we hiked to the Grand Canyon. Yes, that's the name, an impressive canyon that's 50-to-100 feet deep, 30 to 75 feet wide, and at least a quarter-mile long. Most of the group hiked along the floor of the rugged Canyon before rock-scrambling out on the other side. After some water and rest, we headed back to the big ice cave and down via the red trail. Back at the parking lot at 4:00 p.m., we shared a cold soda before starting the long drive home.

CAN YOU FIND YOUR ZIP CODE HERE? AS HELPERS RETIRE, YOU CAN STEP UP TO

PROVIDE THE COVERAGE NEEDED! Ecstacy is hearing from volunteers. The highlighted names

responded to this article in the previous newsletter. If your zip code is missing, you could offer to post 3 publicity flyers a mere 3 times a year. Are you willing to volunteer? Contact Arlene (516-354-0231; arlmar@att.net) Posting flyers in libraries, laundromats, gyms, railroad station, supermarkets and any site with public exposure allows us to reach out beyond our listings of meetings in newspapers. Your L.I. Chapter's publicity proram is based on zip codes to efficiently reach out to Long Islanders who have not heard of ADK-LI and all it has to offer. 11020-Leonard Wetzlar 1 1030-Pauline Lavery 11030-JimPelzer 1J 040-Lillian Burton 11501-Stan Grom 11518-John Lynch 11530-David Fisher 11542-Janet Pomeranz 11542-Gael Chiarella 11547-John Baiata 11550-George Form 11554-Sleven Filipelii 11557-Theresa Guirto 11563-AdaBusso 11566-Arnold Diener 11568-David Goldman 11570-NeerjaBaiial 11572-JeanPolichak 11579-Peter Cowan 11596-Wm. Sanders 11701-David Hagerty 11701 -Carol & Don Mantell 11702-Pat Wachter 11703-Jack Lambros 11710-Tom Holloway 11714-Mary Crump 11720-Susiii Packert 11721-Kay McG rath 11722-Leeanne Alduino 11729-EdRossiito 11731 -Susan Strieker 11733-EdZero

11733-Godlind Johnson 1 I740-Wm. Sommerville 11741-Tim Hickev 11746-ViHoeffner 11747-Tom Farre 11751-William Pasfield 11758-Jerrv Licht 11763-Ed Slaughter 11764-Charles Rockwell 11764-Lou Visconti 11768-Jim Purdy 11769-Jacqueline Uarned 11777-Chuck Brock 11778-J. Salberg/P. Lovvv 11780-BruceBeyer 11784-P. J. Corrigan 11787-RichEhli 11790-Joan Gossner 11790-Jill Werlel

11790-Yoshiko Takeshita 11793 -Judv Snyder 11793-Richard Fram 11797-Nancv Hodson 11801-Bill Bowler 11801-Philip Bloeklvn 11803-Sheila Lipshie 11933-Jan Angelo 11948-Paul Kelsch 11952-Jan Angelo 11953-Tom Reilly 11961-Jan Votruba

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B r o c k ' s B r o w n i e s

-Silvana Falco-

On Nov. 17, 2001, hike leader, Chuck Brock and myself (a new ADK member) led a group of 18 Brownies and their siblings on a two-mile hike along the Walt Whitman Trail in West Hills County Park. Nine of the Brownies' parents accompanied the group as well. The hike commenced at 12:40 pm with a promise of lunch and a special whistle to go to the first Brownie who reached the summit of Jayne's Hill, the highest peak on LI. With temperatures hovering around 51 degrees, children and parents alike enjoyed a beautiful fall day, alll the while experiencing the fun of hiking, many for the first time.

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jpfc 0 The hike was preceded the previous Tuesday afternoon by a 40 min. lesson that Brock gave to Brownie Troop 1012 at the Forest Park Elementary School in Dix Hills.

Some of the topics covered included what to expect on a hike and what items to bring. When asked what the most important item to have on a hike might be, the first response was underwear! Another necessity (toilet paper) prompted a controversial debate among many of the girls. The lesson concluded with a demonstration of various equipment such as raingear, snowshoes, crampons, fleece outerwear, winter hats and collapsible hiking poles.

To the chagrin of some of the parents, it was later reported that the hike went at a much quicker pace than expected. Evidently, the promise of a whistle to the first Brownie to reach the top was a highly coveted prize. The award was good enough to induce these Girls Scouts (and future ADK recruits) to outpace most of the adult hikers!

In the West Hills Park parking lot, hike leader Brock provided instructions on how to read a compass, how to read a map and how to read the trail markers located along the way. Other topics covered with the Brownies were the trees and shrubs indigenous to Long Island observed during the hike, as well as a brief history lesson about the poet, Walt Whitman, for whom the trail was named. There was a plethora of giggles, followed by discussion over how to avoid the plentiful horse manure found along the hike trail.

After arriving at the summit in approximately one hour, everyone took a lunch break. As promised, the prize whistle was awarded to the Brownie who reportedly made it to the top first. Several brownies scaled a large boulder.

Next, team leader Brock gave a brief first aid/moleskin demonstration to two lucky Brownies. The hike concluded at approximately 2:40 p.m. Just prior to our descent, hike leader Brock instructed everyone to "police" the area for litter so that

• 1 JA *

the park could remain in the condition it was found. Everyone apparently enjoyed the hike so much that a future hike on the Greenbelt Trail in Sunken Meadow State Park along the L.I. Sound bluffs was discussed as a potential spring hiking destination. Albeit pleased, some parents were overhead discussing "hot baths" as their next destination.

On December 18, 2001, hike leader Brock and myself were thanked and honored by the Brownies at a scrumptious dinner at the Sitar Indian Restaurant in Huntington. The dinner also served to help the Brownies attain their "Around the World Try-It" patch (they had already received their "Outdoor Adventurer Try-It" patchas a result of their participation in the Jayne's Hill Hike). The dinner was proceeded by viewing a video about India, getting a lesson on various herbs and spices commonly used in Indian cooking, and a visit inside the kitchen where all observed the chef making "nan" bread inside one of the tandoor ovens. The dinner consisted of various appetizers and dips, main course of Chicken Tikki Masala and Tandoori Chicken accompanied by the nan bread. Dishes of Mango ice cream dessert brought the dinner to its conclusion.

As a token of their appreciation, after dinner the Brownies presented us with both a group photo taken at the summit of Jayne's Hill the day of the hike, as well as numerous handmade "Thank You" cards prepared by each of the Brownies. While every card was delightful, the front of one of the more noteworthy cards was emblazoned with a rainbow, a drawing of a man and the words "You Rule, Mr. Brock!" Inside the card read "Dear Mr. Brock, I just want to thank you for teaching me about the markings on trees and taking me and the other junior Girl Scouts on that fascinating Nature Walk on the highest hill or mountain in Long Island. You're a very smart hiker. Yours until Saturn Sings, Jeannine Hennawi."

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A D K - L I O U T I N G S C H E D U L E F O R M A R C H & A P R D L 2 0 0 2

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, rterwill@msn.com

WINTER ALERT: Winter hiking in the Catskills requires, in addition to proper clothing, special equipment: snowshoes, crampons and a ski pole. Hudson Valley outings might also require winter gear. Speak with the leader for either destination.

B+ February 23 Saturday. Catskill Snowshoe. Destination to be determined by participants. Must have previous Catskill experience. Look ahead to renting snowshoes from EMS. Must have crampons that can only be purchased. Call ASAP to learn what you need to do. Register by Thursday, February 21. Leader Arlene Scholer, 516-354-0231 before 9:30 pm.

B February 23 Saturday. Palisades Cliff Hike. Unobstructed and spectacular views of the George Washington Bridge, Spuyten Duyvil, Yonkers and the Hudson River. We will ascend from the Englewood Cliffs Boat Basin to Alpine and hike the Long Path back along the top of the Palisades. About 11 moderate miles in all; not an event for those who want to hike long and hard. We'll be out all day taking our time in the winter clime. Hiking boots a must. Bring lunch and drinks and please wear clothing appropriate to the season. No go in deep snow. Limit 20 hikers. Please register by Wednesday, February 20. Leader Bob McDermott, 718-776-8379 before 10 pm. Joint with the Sierra Club and New York chapter ADK.

C March 2 Saturday. Sands Point Preserve. Trails weave from the woodlands around Gold Coast castles and down to LI Sound all north of Port Washington. We'll do it all with hopes of seeing a nesting resident — a great horned owl. Suitable for children. Register by noon on Friday, March 1. Leader Arlene Scholer, 516-354-0231 before 9:30 pm during the week.

C March 3 Sunday. Paumanok Trail on Long Island: Red Creek Woods. 6-8 miles in Sears-Bellows/Hampton Bays area, taking in Bellows Pond and surrounding woodlands. Register by Friday, March 1. Leader Paul Lanzillotta, 631-864-2576 before 10 pm.

A+ March 9 Saturday. Catskill Bushwhack. Leader's choice of climb to one or more trailless 3500' summits. Strenuous hike at moderate pace. Suggestions on destination are welcome. Register by Thurs., March 7. Leader Jeff Ritter, 718-279-3431 before 10 pm.

March 15-17 Friday-Sunday. Winter Weekend in the Catskills at the Full Moon. Cost will be $120 for Friday night lodging, Saturday breakfast, lunch, dinner and lodging, Sunday breakfast and lunch. Call Full Moon at 845-254-5117 asap to make your lodging reservation and call Carol Mantell, 631-598-1015 before 10 pm, to get detailed information.

A March 23 Saturday. Windham High Peak. Join us for a winter hike up the beautiful Windham High Peak in the Catskills. Moderate and tolerant pace. Crampons and snowshoes required. Register by Thurs., March 21. Leader Carol Mantell, 631-598-1015 before 10 pm.

B March 24 Sunday. Traditional Palm Sun. Hike to St. Johns Church. Follow footsteps of Walter Shannon, Frank Oliver and John Blenninger as we take our annual pilgrimage to beautiful St. John's Church in the Wilderness for a 3 pm service and a wonderful pot luck buffet in the barn across the road. Hiking clubs from all over attend this service. We'll be travelling over 6 mi. along trails and woods roads. We'll have to arrange a car shuttle as this is a one-way hike from our camp road in Harriman State Park to the church. Meet at entrance to camp road at 9:45 am. Call as early as possible if you'd be willing to assist in the car shuttle (it should take about 20 minutes). Please call or email the leader to register by Wed. night March 20 so I can figure out how much space is needed. Also let me know if you need a ride in from Sloatsburg (bus arrives at 9:15 am). Weather is always interesting this time of the year (be prepared for snow, cold rain or temps in the 70s; we've had it all). Expect to return to camp road about 5-5:30 pm. Joint with NY Chapter; limited to the first 6 LI Chapter members that call! Leader Glen Nison, 718-625-2182, email gnisonbike@juno.com.

B April 6 Saturday. Trail Maintenance on Schunemunk Mountain. We will do our semi-annual trail maintenance trip on our chapter's section of the Long Path on Schunemunk Mountain. Activities will include brush clipping, trail clearing and refreshing of blazes where necessary. Bring lunch, water and any tools (i.e.. hand clippers, branch topers, branch saws) you think will be useful. Meet at carpool exit 32 at 8 am. Register by 9 pm Friday, April 5. Leader Jim Purdy, 631-745-6989, jpurdy@suffolk.lib.ny.us.

B+ April 13 Saturday. Appalachian Trail Sampler. Moderate hike of about 10 miles on a section of this famed footpath. Section to be determined by leader. Register by Thursday, April 11. Leader JefFRitter, 718-279-3431 before 10 pm.

C April 13 Saturday. Caumsett State Park, Lloyd Harbor. Routing is from the woodlands to LI Sound with a beach walk to a high point for lunch and back via the mansion to visit the resident and handicapped birds of prey. Suitable for children. Register by noon on Friday, April 12. Leader Arlene Scholer, 516-354-0231 before 9:30 pm during the week.

B April 20 Saturday. Yokibics ® for hikers. Join us for a moderate-paced 7 mile circular hike around the Pine Meadow Lake area in Harriman State Park. Bring your situpon! We will learn yoga-based stretches appropriate for hikers at various stops along the way. Register by Monday, April 15. Leaders Gael Chiarella, registered yoga therapist, and Gerry Barsky, 516-624-3413.

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A D K O U T I N G S C H E D U L E (continued...)

B April 27 Saturday. Long Island hike on Fire Island. 8 miles along beach and dunes in Wilderness section of National Seashore from Smith Point Park to Davis Park. Will car shuttle and use ferry. Register by Friday April 26. Leader Paul Lanzillotta, 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 leader.

PLAN AHEAD

May 3-5 Friday-Sunday. Chicago Walk. Travel on Amtrak to Chicago, tour the city, sleep on train. See America for $119 to $165 roundtrip depending on available discount. Leader Ron Engasser, 631-289-5375 or USRON@juno.com.

May 24-27,2002 (Memorial Weekend). Brothers Trail maintenance in Johns Brook - Keene Valley of the Adirondacks. Great views, hiking, a group dinner and the best of company. Call to register and give lodging information. Call now for further information. Leader Herb Coles, 516-897-5306 before 10 pm.

June 7-9 Spring Outing. Return with us to the Catskills, to the Alpine Inn and the Slide Mountain Forest House in Oliveria. These inns are ideally situated in a valley below many of the Catskill peaks, a beautiful venue offering numerous opportunities for hiking. Planned activities include walks and hikes ranging from easy to demanding. For those not wishing to hike, there are many cultural offerings in the area. Two evening programs are "Adirondack Magic" with Susan Hamlin (music) and John Schneider (visuals) and a talk by John Schneider entitled "Antarctica: Following the Shackleton Legacy," based in part on his travels in Antarctica. For information contact Mary MacDonald, 27 Woodside Drive, Clifton Park, NY 12065 or at Mstekhike@aol.com.

July 14-20. Sunday-Saturday. Annual White Mountain Hiking Trip. Drive up to Pinkham Notch on July 14 and stay at Joe Dodge Lodge. On Monday, we'll hike up to Galehead Hut in preparation for Tuesday's 15 mi. hike out over the Bond Mts. Backpacker Magazine chose the Bonds as one of the 10 most beautiful places in the hiking world. We'll then stay at the Wilderness Inn in North Woodstock, NH for rest of the week. All other hikes will be off the Kankamangus Highway. The Hancocks, The Kinsmans and Tecumsah are some of the possibilities. Price is $300 plus cost of 4 dinners; we'll eat out while staying in North Woodstock. Limit will be 12 people total including leader. Your place is secured by sending a $300 check to Carol Mantell, 58 Van Nostrand Place, Amityville, NY 11701 and calling 631-598-1015.

Our chapter has reserved Johns Brook Lodge from July 26, 2002 to July 31,2002, Friday to Wednesday. Staying at JBL, which is 3 miles from the road, gives access to at least 9 of the 4,000 foot peaks in the Adirondacks. $200 will get you 5 nights' lodging, breakfast and dinner. Call now for further information. Leader June Fait, 516-897-5306 before 9 pm.

Advance Notice

BP the AT. This Spring through Fall I am planning a series of backpacks beginning at Delaware Water Gap and moving progressively north with the eventual goal being Mt.Katahdin in Maine. Most BPs will be 4-5 days and cover an average of 10 miles of trail per day but some days will be as short as 4 miles or as long as 14 miles. All BPs are rated "A" in degree of difficulty. Since long range planning is impractical in this instance, the BPs will not be listed in upcoming Outings Schedules. If this description matches your interests and abilities, contact Rich Ehli for more information at r ichehl i@optonl ine .net or 631 979-5646.

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THE CATSKILL PLAQUE

Q U E S T RESUMES!

Many years ago Richard Furman created a brass plaque engraved with the letters 'ADK-LI' on this palm-sized item. It was originally hidden on the summit of Peekamoose, a Catskill summit, and clues were published to its location. It has been repeatedly found and re-hidden with a new set of clues for each new Catskill location. Lanny Wexler provided the last set of clues and Rich Moore found it. Now Rich has developed a new set of clues which are printed below. If you can decipher his clues, you can have your membership fees paid for one year. Go to EMS and buy yourself a Catskill map set and compass to join in the fun of this LI-ADK tradition. Keep the tradition alive! Rich wishes you good luck and you can contact him in 2 ways: 845 496 7667 or <remoore@frontiemet.net>. The plaque has been hidden for 3 years, so search it out and win the prize!

1. You do not have to wait for the solstice to rest your weary head on my summit. 2. If you travel approx. 3.5 miles from my summit on the cerulean (hint: John Paul would know.) colored trail, you will come to the "The Great Northern Viewpoint." 3. If approaching from far to the south, enjoy the sunset and the view. However, watch your step and don't be caught napping or you may arrive much later than you think. Also, be careful not to wander off to the left or you may find yourself in a shady little vale named in honor of Mrs. Schribner. 4. Upon reaching my summit, look for a herd path leading to an overlook looking to the south where you will find a large flat rock and a "No Camping" sign. From this rock, take a compass bearing of 268 degrees. This should point you in the right direction. However, don't jump, but scramble down to your right to the base of the cliff. There you will find the ring of fire behind which is the object of your desire. I hope you didn't forget your flashlight! GOOD LUCK!

LOOKING BACK

-Laura Terwilliger

Please send your Liability Forms/Hike Reports to

Sheila Lipshie, 74 Richfield St., Plainview N Y 11803.

Trip Reports may be e-mailed to Laura at

rterwill@msn.com (or mailed to 44 No. Howell 's Pt.

Rd Bellport NY 11713)

November 11, East Hudson Circular: Stu Levy led

Linda Coste, Pat Sanders and Rich Fram on a strenuous, but beautiful 10 mile hike near Cold Spring

(by the East Hudson River). Starting on the Washburn trail, we scaled the south side of Mount Taurus, switched to the Undercliff trail, went down Mount Taurus and up the side of Breakneck Ridge, switched to the Breakneck Ridge trail, went up and down a few of the several hills along the ridge, switched to the Notch trail, passed an old abandoned dairy farm and scaled the northern side of Mount Taurus, switched back to the Washburn trail and completed the circular hike. After having an elevation gain of over 3000 feet, our hearty crew wanted more. We then went over to Little Stony Point and did a circular hike there as well. The weather was perfect, the views were awesome and the hikers had tremendous energy.

December 2, Famous Lollipop Loop (Southfields). Stu Levy led Don Mantell, Rich Ehli, Pat Sanders, Linda Coste, Ken Spadafora, Peggy Greeley, Yoshiko Takeshita, Jim Purdy, Judy Odishoo, Denis Strieker, Susan Strieker, Pauline Lavery, Laura Tsaclas, Ron Marczyk, Cathy Marczyk and Rich Moore on the second annual famous 8.25 lollipop loop. Starting behind the Red Apple Rest Restaurant in Southfields, we walked north along the railroad tracks to the Nurian Trail, crossed the "raging" Ramapo River, utilized the concrete footpath to cross the thruway and started our ascent of Green Pond Mtn., passing through the Valley of the Boulders. Don went ahead and, as a leprechaun perched on a rock, serenaded us with Irish tunes with his magic flute. The acoustics were incredible and the music resonated throughout the hills. We then climbed Black Rock Mtn. and switched to the R-D trail, stopping for lunch at Bald Rocks shelter that seemed to be built in the fourteenth century. We then switched to the Dunning trail and passed through the devastation caused by a recent fire. We passed and entered Boston Mine and learned the histoiy of the mine. We then continued on the Dunning trail and stopped by Green Pond before returning on the Nurian trail and completed the famous lollipop loop. The views throughout the day were incredible. The weather was perfect and because of the successful completion of the lollipop loop, the leader provided all hikers with their choice of lollipop flavors.

December 2 Manhattan Walk: Ron Engasser (L) and Carol Hageman, Angels Savino, Sharin Kumar, Susan Murray, June Christensen, and Moira Connelly, hiked from Penn Station to points South on this chilly day. We inhaled the many sights down Broadway and 5th Avenue to Greenwich Village. Breakfast at the Silver Spurs on Houston St. then to SOHO and Chinatown which was teeming with shoppers. A detour around Police Headquarters because of Sept 11th, took us under the Brooklyn Bridge then on to the Bridge for a look at the Manhattan Skyline. We continued to the World Trade Center where we all

" I -

Looking Back (continued....)

put our initials on a memorial sheet at Trinity Church. The LI-ADK has been represented. It was a somewhat gut wrenching experience for all. A detour through Wall Street (since Battery Park is all but shut down) and the Stock Market led us to the Southstreet Seaport and a stroll through the Mall and entertainment by street musicians. A quick hike back to Little Italy and lunch at SPQR rounded out this eventful day. Most of the group also took in the tree at Rockefeller Center before returning home.

December 29: Catskills: Balsam, one of the four required winter peaks with the Catskill 3500 Club, was the 5.2 roundtrip destination for Thorn Fioriglio, Pauline Lavery, Carol McHugh, Adele Sherwood, Judy Snyder, Laura Tsaclas, Pat Wachter, and Arlene Scholer (L). With drought conditions the streams were easily crossed, the kind temps in the 20's kept us comfy and the ice and snow underfoot burned off some holiday calories. This winter hike was a new experience for Pat and Laura who just started hiking in the Catskills last fall and are keeping track of the peaks they've bagged. The steepest sections of the red McKinley Hollow trail and the trail to the summit had us wearing our crampons, a new experience for Pat and Laura. Best of all, it was a relaxing pace for all involved as we resumed exercise and the breathing of cold air on this uphill trek with 2000' of elevation gain.

January 19, Montauk Birding for Winter Waterfowl. Montauk sightings involve sea ducks but predictions for an afternoon snowstorm changed our destination and shortened our driving time but not our enthusiasm. We traveled from north shore destinations to Swan Pond in Patchogue where waterfowl that prefer fresh water and other species were in great number and variety. Barbara and Tom Reilly and Arlene Scholer benefited from Richard Furman's (L) familiarity with waterfowl and his telescope that brought each animal into closer view. Without hesitation, he'd tell us what to expect in the viewing which gave us a chance to also find a picture in a bird book. The sightings included northern shovelers, American wigeons, Eurasian wigeons, coots, buffieheads, pied-billed grebes, hooded mergansers, red-breasted mergansers, ruddy ducks, mallards, northern pintails, redheads, greater and lesser scaups, ruddy ducks, ring-necked ducks and mute swans as well as two red tailed hawks, a sharp-shinned hawk, a snow goose, a white fronted goose, a great blue heron, and a kill deer. Hopefully an elusive barnacle goose, currently in East Hampton, will stay put for viewing on our way to Montauk in February. Mucho thanks to Barbara whose knowledge of every back road in Suffolk led us quickly from one destination to another.

L e a r n H o w T o B a c k p a c k

-Jerry Licht-

The class date is tentatively April 18th (location and date to be confirmed shortly). This year the instruction will consist of one evening and an overnight in the Catskills. The clinic is geared towards pople with no experience and will cover basic gear selection and use, trip planning and more. Most of the learning will occur in field so if you are not serious about the overnight, this clinic is not for you. The fee is $15. In addition, it is suggested that all participants attend the map and compass workshop in May. Please send check payable to Jerry Licht with SASE, including your phone number to 3 Francine Drive North, Massapequa, NY 11758. Registration deadline is April 10th. Please call me for further information at 516-797-5729.

M a p a n d C o m p a s s W o r k s h o p

f o r B e g i n n e r s

If you are looking to get off the beaten path and tread where few dare to follow or you are trying to find that elusive canister on some trailless peak or just simply trying to learn how to use a map and compass to have confidence in knowing where you are when you are on a hike...well, this workshop is the first step. Learn how to let your map and compass be the key that unlocks the freedom of the mountains. The workshop is free and open to the general public, as well as club members. The workshop will take place on Thursday, May 2nd (location and date to be confirmed shortly). Instructors are Jerry Licht and Gerry Barsky. To register call Jerry Licht 516-797-5729 between and 9 pm. Class size is limited to 15, so register early.

From the Editor

Articles of interest are always welcome. This month's edition has a couple of wonderful stories sent to me through e-mail. ("Brock's Brownies" and "Ellenville Ice Caves in July").

Mail: Ellen Kelly, 3 Birchwood Court, Apt. 5B, Mineola, NY 11501; e-mail: iiyekele@aol.com: phone: 516-294-1462.

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RETURN TO T H E ISLAND

OF CHINCOTEAGUE

September 27-30

Friday to Monday

What is offered? In addition to enjoying local restaurants, all the popular aspects of last October's visit are included. Besides kayaking and canoeing in protected waterways, walking with resident wild ponies, birding, biking and time to relax and walk on Assateague's Atlantic shore, you can enjoy quiet time and sunsets from the porches and docks of the two waterfront homes facing Chincoteague Bay. Chincoteague is adjacent to Assateague Island, a famous wildlife refuge. Their location is at the southern tip of the Delmarva Peninsula due south of Maryland and Delaware and on Virginia's eastern shore. Driving time is equal to Lake Placid. The approximate cost will be $170 for a 3 night stay. YOU CAN SECURE A RESERVATION BY MAILING A NON­REFUNDABLE CHECK ASAP FOR $100 to: Arlene Scholer, 17 Willow Road, New Hyde Park, NY 11040. The first twenty people to respond with checks will be guaranteed participation. Additional names will be put on a wait list. Questions? Contact Arlene at 516 354 0231; arlmar@att.net. There will be a meeting for the participants at 7pm before the May 9th meeting. Be a speedy responder to guarantee yourself a spot!

i ^ - • tL Northvil le Placid Trail Event

Saturday, June 1, 2002

National Trai ls Day • y &

The ADK Trails Program, to honor the 80th anniversary of the Club and its flagship trail, the Northville Lake Placid Trail, is holding an event titled "Building a Wilderness Way". This is the tenth straight year- ADK has hosted an annual National Trails Day project. The intent is to showcase the stewardship and maintenance efforts of the Trails Program and demonstrate the level of maintenance necessary along the trail, focusing on the central part of the NPT. Projects vary from outdoor classroom hikes to fire towers, basic brushing maintenance, installing erosion control, highline setup workshop, trail layout and design and scouting potential relocations of the trail. All levels of ability and experience are invited to join us. Workshops and projects will be led by ADK professional trail crew members and veteran program volunteers and committee members. After the workshops, participants and program supporters will be invited to attend a barbecue/dedication gathering at Byron Park located in Indian Lake, New York. The registration brochure explaining the different projects, meeting places and schedule will be available after March 15, 2002. Please call ADK LOJ at

518-523-3441 or check the web site at www.adk.org <http://www.adk.org> We hope to see you out there to support our efforts and the Northville-Placid Trail. We also need volunteers who are willing to help organize the afternoon barbecue and dedication. Thanks very much.

Jane Neale ADK Trails Committee

(Please note: If your chapter plans to hold a trail event and/or already has a trip/workhike/event planned for June I: We strongly encourage you to register your event on the American Hiking Soc. Website www.americanhiking.org (the registration is under events/National Trails Day) Once you do so, you will receive an organization packet including t-shirts, banner and media packet. It will also promote your event to a broader audience as well as be used to show how ADK is involved at larger level with National Trails Day. Adirondack Mountain Club Trails Program Tim Tierney, Director Wes Lampman, Trails Coordinator

518-523-3480 E A S T E R N M O U N T A I N S P O R T S

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E M S C l u b D a y

F r i . , A p r i l 2 6

4 p m t o C l o s i n g

S a t . , A p r i l 2 7

A l l D a y As a member of an outdoor organization,

we know you love the outdoors as much as we do. Club Day is our way of saying thanks.

2 0 % O f f E v e r y t h i n g i n t h e s t o r e

F r i d a y , A p r i l 26 4pm to Closing Saturday, Apr i l 27 All Day

Just bring proof of membership in an outdoor organization or this ad and we'll take 20% off

your entire purchase at EMS that day.

£ & NOT JUST KNOWLEDGE.

KNOW-HOW. Toll-free Customer Service (888) 463-6367

www.ems.com

Can you volunteer to cover hours for the EMS sale date on April 27th at the Smithhaven Hall and Carle Place stores? No one need give extended hours. It would be helpful to have at least 3 volunteers per store. Contact Arlene Scholer 516 354 0231 or arlmar@att.net to learn more details.

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Long Island Mountaineer - March & April 2002

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, 2Q02 Mountaineer is March 31s

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 % 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.

Put these dates on your calendar for our next two meetings!

March 14th - Certified YOKIBICS trainer, Gael Chiarella, has designed a workout program designed specifically for hikers. Come and learn the best way to prepare for and relax after a tiring hike. We're looking forward to this unusual presentation. Tired muscles are already saying "Thanks, Gael!"

By popular request, we will also have a SWAP night on March 14th. Bring your equipment to swap and be prepared to find something you can't resist adding to your own collection. '

April 11th - Outdoorsman extraordinaire, Gerry Barsky, will focus on a favorite hobby: caving.- Travel with him to the world of headlamps and learn all that is necessary to join him on a subsequent hike.

John White - Membership LI-ADK 143 Maple Avenue Medford, NY 11763

BULK RATE US POSTAGE

PAID HICKSVILLE, NY PERMIT NO. 163

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