APRIL - MAY 2017

UPCOMING GENERAL MEETINGS: PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE May 30, 2017 7- 9 pm May, will be the Special Elections meeting. The voting will be WWDD via written ballots. COME AND VOTE!!!!! Dennis Chemick was a great hike leader and a good person. He was June 20, 2017 7- 9 pm always bright, cheerful and smiling. Hike leader rewards and mileage patches will be handed out. We Our friend passed away recently. will install the elected officers and officially welcome new board Dennis welcomed new members and members and goodbye to retiring president Dan Hyman. was the first NHOC hike leader for Meeting location: 38 Old Country Road, Garden City. many of us. His hikes always had a lot of people. He led hikes at a comfortable pace in NOMINATING COMMITTEE NEWS many scenic locations on Long Island and the Catskills. His FOR UNCOMING ELECTIONS weekend trips to Montauk were always fully booked. PROCEDURE FOR NOMINATING CANDIDATES Dennis worked hard for NHOC. Besides being a hike leader he FOR OFFICER POSITIONS OF NHOC was Membership chairperson for many years. He was still serving Any member in good standing may submit a nomination for in an advisory capacity to the NHOC board. Dennis helped to any of the five elected Officer positions, by submitting an recruit new volunteers to fill job vacancies in NHOC. He believed email with the nominee's name and email address to [email protected]. volunteering is how we help make NHOC thrive.

ELECTIONS - TUESDAY, MAY 30th WWDD. What Would Dennis Do? Volunteer! Now! The following Candidates are running: Like Dennis, I want to encourage you to volunteer for the open PRESIDENT - Wendy Pally and Paul Aledort positions of Publicity and Trail Maintenance and to run for the VICE PRESIDENT - Don Phillips job of Corresponding Secretary. Corr. Secy. is essential for club TREASURER - Richard Eisenstadt communications to the members and the public. Please help the RECORDING SECRETARY - Jill Klasson club we all love. Volunteer for open NHOC jobs by contacting CORRESPONDING SECRETARY - OPEN (more info on pg.8) the Nominating Committee or any NHOC Board member. PLEASE COME AND VOTE! We will be having a Special Elections meeting on Tuesday, May 30th. This will be a written ballot election, so please attend OPEN NON-ELECTED BOARD POSITIONS the meeting to vote! VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Dan Hyman, NHOC President Get Move Involved in NHOC by becoming a Board Member. The following Board Positions are now open: Publicity, Trail Maintenance MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL for 2017·2018: If anyone is interested in any of these open positions, please IT'S TIME TO RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP email [email protected] and you will be A membership form was included in the Feb/Mar Shorelines on contacted with details. the last page. MARK YOUR CALENDAR: All current memberships expired on March 31, 20I7. Please complete a membership form ASAP and mail it in with your ANNUAL PICNIC June 10, 2017 check to the address on the form. REMEMBER: you can choose Shorelines "GO GREEN" MEMBERS ONLY paperless option "via e-mail only" by checking the box on the Bethpage State Park, Eagle Pavilion 9:30am-6pm membership form and save $5.00 off of your membership. Hiking, Biking, Games, Food, Raffle and more! ELECTRONIC MEMBERS: print the membership form, WE NEED VOLUNTEERS, if you’re interested complete and mail it with check to the address on the form. please send e-mail to [email protected] Thank you, Wendy Pally Membership Chairperson

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE: http://www.nassauhike.org 1

IMPORTANT NOTICE

HIKE DIFICULTY AND DISTANCE: A Hikes: Over 8 miles – Hiking and other outdoor Club activities are inherently dangerous. Each of us assumes all the risks flat terrain or 7+ miles whenever we participate. Each person must be sure the activity does not exceed his/her ability. Consult a fast pace, steep climb or physician if you have any question concerning your health or ability to participate, and call the leader if strenuous. you have any question concerning the activity. Each person is responsible for being properly equipped. B Hikes: 8 miles or less – Hiking boots and suitable clothing are necessities for all hikes off Long Island and for all A and B hikes moderate pace, some on Long Island. Unless the activity description states otherwise, always bring lunch, water, and rain gear. climbing, up and down - The location, duration, and degree of difficulty of each activity are determined by the leader. The hike or not steep. activity leaders are not employees or agents of NHOC. They are volunteers who want each participant to C Hikes: 5 miles or less – enjoy a safe, pleasant outdoor activity. They must have your complete attention and cooperation. In order flat terrain, leisurely pace. to participate in a hike, each person must have read and signed the SIGN IN/RELEASE FORM. We invite non-members to participate in one Club activity as our guest, after reading and signing the SIGN IN/RELEASE FORM, before joining the Club. We recommend that guests and new members begin with a C level hike. The registration/release form contains the following statement. By participating in this hike or activity, I agree to be solely responsible for and ASSUME THE RISK of my own safety and the safety of minor children accompanying me. I acknowledge that these activities contain elements of hazard and risk which could result in damage, injury, or death. I agree to RELEASE AND HOLD HARMLESS the Nassau Hiking and Outdoor Club, its members, officers, directors, and hike/activity leaders from liability, claims, demands, or any causes of action arising from my participation in these activities. This release is expressly intended to release the Club, its members, officers, directors, and hike/activity leaders for its or their fault, carelessness, or negligence in the supervision of Club activities. I know of no physical impediment or disability which would prevent me from completing the activity without injury, and I represent that I am physically capable and properly dressed and equipped to do so. I agree to follow the leader’s instructions, to stay with the group, and not to proceed ahead of the group without the leader’s consent. My signature indicates that I have read and understand this statement, and that I agree to its content.

GENERAL MEETING LOCATION: 38 Old Country Road, Garden City. Directions: Take exit M1 off the Meadowbrook Parkway and head west on Old Country Road (past Roosevelt Field to Mineola). Travel for about 1.5 mile to 38 Old Country Road, which is on the south (left-hand) side of the road, by the blue water tower.

CLUB CAR POOLING AND MEETING PLACES: Car Pooling: The dollar figure appearing in the Lake Success: Lake Success Shopping Center on Penn Station: meet hike schedule after the words “Lake Success” is a Union Turnpike between New Hyde Park Rd and by the police booth suggested contribution to the car pool driver to Lakeville Rd. Exit 26S on Northern Pkwy or Exit 34S next to the LIRR partially defray the costs of gasoline and tolls. on LIE. Meet at the east end of the shopping center, Waiting Room. This contribution should be paid after riding. behind the bank and Shake Shack. “As a condition of our Non-owned Auto Insurance coverage, all drivers who are driving other members or guests from a central meeting point (such as Lake Success) to the trailhead are required to carry minimum limits of $300,000 on their auto policy. This requirement does not apply to friends carpooling from their homes – it only applies to carpooling from specified meet-up locations. Since our carrier provides coverage in excess of the driver’s personal insurance, they do not want to be brought into a claim unless it exceeds $300,000.”

NHOC OFFICERS AND BOARD MEMBERS Dan Hyman President 516-503-4887 [email protected] Don Phillips Vice-President 516-721-8160 [email protected] Richard Eisenstadt Treasurer 516-647-2574 [email protected] Jill Klasson Recording Secretary 516-378-7857 [email protected] Jean King Corresponding Secretary 631-470-1577 [email protected] Wendy Pally Membership 646-263-0999 [email protected] Wendy Lomusico A Hiking Coordinator 347-804-1309 [email protected] Fran Antonelli B Hiking Coordinator 516-204-5588 [email protected] Frank Lomusico C Hiking Coordinator 347-804-1350 [email protected] Kathy de Vos Events Coordinator 718-423-4221 [email protected] Don Wilber Publications Editor 516-244-5208 [email protected] Guy Jacob Conservation 516-837-9522 [email protected] Kathy de Vos Weekends 718-423-4221 [email protected] Rhonda Eisenstadt Mileage Tally 516-445-1735 [email protected] Dan Hyman NY/NJ Trail Conference Delegate 516-503-4887 [email protected] Barbara Senia Hospitality 516-621-2738 [email protected] Janet Boccia Programs 631-816-1847 [email protected] Jim Ansel Webmaster 516 567-9308 [email protected] Vacant Trail Maintenance Vacant Publicity

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WEEKLY HIKES SCHEDULE

Mon Weekly SUNKEN MEADOW PARK, KINGS PARK C 4 mi Meeting at 5:15 pm and walking at 5:30 Leader: Maureen McDonald, [email protected] 516-524-3163 Fast paced walk. We will continue walking on Mondays at Sunken Meadow Directions: North on Sunken Meadow Parkway to end. Meet at main building by office.

Mon Weekly Apr 3, 10, 17, 24 STILLWELL FIELDS in SYOSSET B 5 mi 9:30am SHARP in parking lot Leader: Rhonda Eisenstadt 516-445-1735 Let’s take a hike from Stillwell Fields towards Cold Spring Harbor. We will explore varied wooded trails on our way to Route 108 and back. We will encounter some hills along the way. Rain cancels. Hiking boots suggested. Bring water. No restrooms / facilities on trail. Directions: Seaford Oyster Bay Expressway (Route 135) North to Jericho Turnpike (Route 25). Go East on Jericho Turnpike. Pass three traffic lights to Southwoods Road. (Town Golf Course on left). Make a left on Southwoods Road and go past three lights. Stillwell is just past Syosset HS on the right. Park close to the trail head

Tues Weekly BETHPAGE PARK TO MASSAPEQUA PARK/PRESERVE B-4-5 mi 5pm SHARP Leaders: Linda Rothstein ([email protected]) - Fran Cassidy ([email protected]) (April only) Moderate+ walkers only. We will not have a sweep! Begin walking at 5 pm SHARP – RETURNING TO OUR CARS BY 6:30 pm at North West Drive in Farmingdale. Join us for a hike that begins on a in Bethpage Park and continues onto Trails into Preserve and back. Some evenings we will travel north. We will adjust distance according to the daylight hours. Bring water. Rain cancels. Directions - Seaford-Oyster Bay Expy (RT-135) to EXIT 6 - Boundary Ave. Plainedge. Take Boundary Ave. towards Farmingdale for 1 mile and make a right on North West Drive. (Near CVS). Park on street.

Wed Weekly JONES BEACH BOARDWALK C 4 mi 10:30am Field 6, near the building, which has rest rooms and refreshment stand, open all winter. Leaders: Ken King 631-991-8170, [email protected] cell 516-238-7694, day of hike only, Eileen Mahler 516-766-6165 Join us for a relaxed walk on the boardwalk.

Wed Weekly Apr 5, 12, & 19 JONES BEACH BOARDWALK C 4 mi 6pm SHARP Field 6 Leader: Carolyn Drab 516 (h) 822-0333 (c) 236-7431 Starting Wednesday, April 5 at 6 p.m. please join us at the beginning of Jones beach boardwalk, field 6, for a 4 mile walk . You may walk alone at your own pace or with others. It is a most pleasant way to get exercise and relax. Hope to see u there. Rain or inclement weather cancels.

HIKES and EVENTS SCHEDULE

Sun Apr 2 AVALON NATURE PRESERVE STONY BROOK NY B 5 mi 10:45am Leaders: Kathie Sieger 631-682-5133 / Janet Boccia 631-816-1847 Please join us for a "sounds of silence" memorial hike in memory of our dear friend Dennis Chemick. Once on the trails we will remain silent for 30 minutes. We will explore the ecological beauty of the park. There are some hills on the hike. After the hike, optional lunch at O Sole Mio on Nesconset Highway near the park. Rain cancels. Hiking boots suggested. Directions: Take Long Island Expressway to exit 62 CR 97 or Nichols Rd North until the end at 25A in Stony Brook. Turn left on 25a and proceed approx. 1.5 miles to Main St. immediately before the stoplight, bear right onto Main St . A short distance on the right is the shopping center. We will meet in the parking lot in front of Fratelli's Italian Eatery. Restrooms available in Fratelli's.

Sun Apr 2 UNION SQUARE TO AND BEYOND slow pace C 3-4 mi 11:15am Penn Station Leader: Ken King 631-991-8170, [email protected], cell 516-238-7694 day of hike only. We will take the subway to Union Square (14th St) to meet members of other clubs at noon, then walk down to Foley Square, once the infamous Five Points, walk around and end at Seaport. Frequent stops to explain the history. No go in rain, snow, snow on ground, or excessively cold, windy weather. Bring lunch to eat on benches in Foley Square.

Fri Apr 7 MOVIE NIGHT, BELLMORE Event 5:45pm at International Café. Leader: Don Phillips 516-721-8160. Meet at Box Office 6:45 pm, Bellmore Playhouse, 525 Bedford Ave., Bellmore, NY or Optional Meet at “International Café” (across the street), 322 Bedford, Bellmore, NY (movie theater number is 516-409-5772.

Sat Apr 8 BETHPAGE STATE PARK B 6 mi 9:15am in picnic area parking lot Leader: Rhonda Eisenstadt 516-445-1735 (fee of $8, free with Empire Pass) We will hike varied wooded trails with some hills in Bethpage State Park. Rain cancels. Hiking boots suggested. Bring snack and water. Directions: Seaford Oyster Bay Expressway (Route 135) to exit 8 - Powell Ave. Take Exit 8 east to the park. Take first left heading north into park.

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HIKES and EVENTS SCHEDULE continued

Sat Apr 15 WILDLIFE REFUGE - New Members Welcome C 2 mi 9:30am Lake Success $7 Leader: Seena S. [email protected]; 347-387-7788 Let’s take a leisurely walk around Jamaica Bay. We will explore the trails and the ponds to look for a variety of springtime shorebirds and songbirds, colorful blossoms and other flora and fauna. Photographers welcome. Bring camera, binoculars, lunch/snacks, water, comfortable walking shoes, hat, insect repellent. There is a Visitor Center with restrooms on site. The Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge— part of Gateway National Recreation Area—is one of the most significant bird sanctuaries in the Northeastern United States and one of the best places in to observe migrating species. (Please Note: There is no café on premises. Bring snacks; we can eat afterwards at one of the Diner’s on Cross Bay Blvd. on the way back.)

Sun Apr 16 SAN SUCCI COUNTY PARK SAYVILLE NY C 4 mi 10am SHARP Leader: Kathie Sieger: 631-682-5133 We will meet at park entrance on Broadway Avenue. We will Bunny Hop two trails in the pine barrens of this county park in Sayville; Heavy rain cancels. Directions: Eastbound, take NY 27 to Exit 50, continue in service road to Broadway Ave., turn right to park, 1/4 mile on left; Westbound, take NY 27 Exit 51, stay left in service road to Broadway Ave., turn left to park; Parking is limited-Overflow parking on Broadway Ave. or side street opposite entrance. We will meet in the parking lot.

Sat Apr 22 AT TWILIGHT B 5 mi 5:15pm SHARP - Springfield Boulevard and 76th Avenue, Oakland Gardens, . Leader: Lewis Levy 718-690-8568 Call or Text. [email protected]. A moderately paced hike through this hike leader's hometown park where we will hopefully catch twilight in the Forest. Should not be needed but bring a flashlight just in case. Optional post hike dinner. Please note if you are driving west you will encounter traffic volume this time of day. Please utilize technology to allow adequate time to get to the hike location on time. Directions from Long Island: Via the Long Island Expressway: Get off at Springfield Blvd. Make a left at the 1st light on to Springfield Blvd. Go about 1 mile and make a left turn on to 76th Avenue. Go about 200 feet and turn left into the park's parking lot. Via the Northern State Parkway. Take the Cross Island Parkway, Union Turnpike exit and follow the signs to Union Turnpike. At the 1st light turn right on to Union Turnpike. At the next light turn right on to Springfield Blvd. Go about 1/2 mile and turn right on to 76th Avenue. Go about 200 feet and turn left into the park's parking lot. GPS Users: 22408 76th Avenue, Oakland Gardens should get you there.

INFORMATIONAL / ANNOUNCEMENTS

IMPORTANT NOTES ABOUT OUR EMAIL SYSTEM When you join the club, we enter your e-mail address into our Constant Contact (CC) email messaging system. Using CC, our volunteers Jean King and Jill Klasson are on the job all year, adding new members to the email list and informing more than 400 of us of upcoming hikes, events, and most importantly, last minute changes. There are two issues you all need to know about this communication system: BLOCKED EMAILS The Cause: A few members had marked our emails as "spam" or "junk." This is very harmful, as it only takes a few of these "spam reports" to BLACKLIST our nassauhike.org domain - just a few of these can hurt EVERYONE. PLEASE DO NOT MARK ANY NASSAUHIKE EMAILS AS SPAM OR JUNK. "SAFE UNSUBSCRIBE" DON'T CLICK ON IT! It’s CC’s way of protecting folks from unwanted e-mail. Please do not click that link. Once it knocks you off the system, we would need to send you instructions with a few steps on your part to get back on our contacts list.

Sat Apr 22 FIVE BRIDGES AND THREE BOROUGHS A 14+ mi 10am Penn Station Waiting Room Leaders: Rhonda Eisenstadt / Janet Boccia Please register 631-816-1847 or [email protected] - email preferred Come join us on a hike that explores Five Bridges and Three Boroughs. We will be crossing the via the Queensboro, Williamsburg, and Bridges and between Queens and Brooklyn via the Pulaski Bridge. There are neighborhoods to explore such as Long Island City, Polish Greenpoint, artsy and Hasidic Williamsburgh and the melting pot of the . Lunch will be at a diner in Long Island City. We will complete our hike by walking over the from Brooklyn to Manhattan with an optional dinner TBD. Bring water, snacks and Metro Card. Rain Cancels.

Sat Apr 22 NISSEQUOGUE RIVER TO SUNKEN MEADOW B+ 6 mi 10:30am Nissequogue River State Park parking lot. Leader: Quyen (Quinn), 631-234-5486 AM of hike only [email protected]. Not for beginners. A fabulous hike along the shoreline to Sunken Meadow then return along hilly bluffs with awesome view of Nissequogue River and LI Sound. Bring water, snack. Rain cancels. Sunken Meadow Pkwy North to SM4. Head east on Pulaski (which changes into Old Dock Rd.) At the 5th traffic light make a right onto St. Johnland Rd. Park entrance is about 1/2 mile on the left.; parking fee or free with Empire Pass. Joint hike with Greenbelt.

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HIKES and EVENTS SCHEDULE continued

Sun Apr 23 LAKES OF BABYLON SLOW PACE C 4 mi 11:15am Babylon RR station ticket office: Leaders: Ken King, 631-592-1937, [email protected], cell 516-238-7694 (day of hike only); Eileen Mahler 516-382-5804 We will walk 3-4 mi around Argylle Lake and up to Southard Pond and back. Bring or buy lunch; places to buy in Babylon near station. No go in rain. Pay to park at Babylon station or find free parking on both sides of Park Ave, by athletic fields a few blocks west of station and north of tracks.

Sat Apr 29 , B 5.5 mi 9:15am SHARP, Northern Blvd & 223rd Street, Bayside. Leader: Lewis Levy 718-690-8568 Call or Text. [email protected]. Must register with Leader by Friday April 28th, 5:00 PM and your registration will be confirmed. Van Cortlandt Park will make you think you are upstate rather than in NYC's mainland borough. The hills here are not long but they are steep and come one right after another. This is a true "B" hike. Bulk of hike will be on the park's Cross Country running path. Sneakers will do but trail shoes or light weight hiking boots would be better. Post hike lunch on City Island which is on the way home. Directions: From the Southern State Parkway, the Northern State Parkway and the Long Island Expressway go north on the Cross Island Parkway. Exit the Cross Island at Northern Boulevard (NY 25A) westbound and immediately get into the left lane. Make a left at the 1st light onto 223rd Street. Immediately look for street parking. GPS Users: 22208 Northern Boulevard, Bayside should get you there.

Sat Apr 29 RIVER to RIVER (members only) A 10+ mi 10:00am - Penn Station Waiting Room Leaders: Rhonda Eisenstadt / Janet Boccia Please register 631-816-1847 or [email protected] - email preferred Join us for a River to River walk. From Penn Station we will walk the city streets to Kips Bay, then along the East River downtown. Passing various points of interest along the way to Lower Manhattan, we will then cross the tip of Manhattan to the West Side. Our walk continues uptown along the back to Penn Station. Bring water & snacks. Late lunch/early dinner TBD. Bring optional METRO CARD. Rain cancels.

Fri May 5 MOVIE NIGHT, BELLMORE Event 5:45pm at International Café. Leader: Don Phillips 516-721-8160. Meet at Box Office 6:45 pm, Bellmore Playhouse, 525 Bedford Ave., Bellmore, NY or Optional Meet at “International Café” (across the street), 322 Bedford, Bellmore, NY (movie theater number is 516-409-5772.

Sat May 6 BROOKLYN BOTANIC GARDENS Slow Paced C 3-5 mi 10:45am LIRR Atlantic Avenue, Ticket Office or 11:30am outside Front Gate Garden (next to Brooklyn Museum) (Before Lunch). Leaders: Ken King: 631-991-8170 cell (day of hike);516-238-7694, [email protected]; Eileen Mahler 516-766-6165. Cherry Blossom time at the gardens. We will walk the full length of the Gardens including the Cherry , where all the cherry trees will be in bloom. Lunch will be at the Botanic Garden Restaurant – no outside food permitted. Take #2 or #3 train to . Bring snack, water, and lunch. This is a Joint Hike.

Sun May 7 INWOOD HILL / FORT TRYON PARKS, UPPER MANHATTAN B 6 mi 10:15am - Penn Station, Central Corridor near Track 18. Leader: Lewis Levy 718-690-8568 Call or Text. [email protected] Must register with Leader by Saturday May 5th, 12:00 Noon and your registration will be confirmed. We will take the "A" train from Penn Station to its last stop at 207th Street and start the hike at . Inwood Hill Park has the last remaining original forest on Manhattan Island and lots of rugged terrain. We will explore Inwood Hill Park and from there go to the site of the Cloisters. There will be an approximately 1 hour stop for lunch (please bring it) at Fort Tryon Park where you have the option to just hang out or visit the Cloisters. There are substantial hills in both parks, please know that you are capable of climbing hills if you decide to attend this hike.

Sat May 20 , RIVERDALE, NY - New Members Welcome C 2 mi 9:15am Lake Success $7 Leader: Seena S. [email protected]; 347-387-7788 We’ll take a slow-paced walk around a spectacular 28-acre public garden and cultural center overlooking the Hudson River and Palisades. We will explore the various gardens and trails Photographers welcome. Bring camera, lunch/snacks, comfortable walking shoes, water, hat, insect repellent. There is a very good café (soups, salads, entrees, desserts) & lovely gift shop on premises. Fees: Parking per car $8/Ground Admission: $8/$4; http://www.wavehill.org

Sat May 27 JACKSON HEIGHTS FOOD TOUR C 2 mi 2:00pm Lake Success or 3:00pm Diversity Plaza located at 37th Road and 73rd Street Leader: Michele Monahan Event is limited - Members Only - please register by phone and leave your number: (516) 423-1116 Jackson Heights is the perfect place for a food tour because of the diversity of its restaurants' ethnic delicacies. We will sample about 7 Latin American and South Asian eateries. Afterwards, we will explore the Jackson Heights Historic District. This will be a lovely walk during the springtime. Note: If you plan to meet us at Diversity Plaza, leave yourself an extra 20 minutes to find parking.

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VOICE OF CONSERVATION Opposition to Dramatic Increase in Hudson River Anchorage Grounds Submitted by Guy Jacob, Conservation Chair n industry proposal to establish a large number of new anchorages for commercial vessels in the Hudson River — 43 moorings in 10 locations from Yonkers to Kingston, comprising more than 2,400 acres, has met with stiff local resistance: at least 10,000 comments, 34 municipal resolutions and dozens of letters from elected officials to the Coast Guard, filed A between June and December 2016. The Coast Guard said this would allow “for a safer and more efficient flow of vessel traffic” in its rulemaking proposal. But it’s really about expanding industrial use of the River – especially for crude oil transport. The anchorage request comes amid a number of efforts to significantly increase the use of the Hudson as an oil shipping hub. Requests from the Maritime Association of the Port of NY/NJ Tug and Barge Committee, the Hudson River Port Pilot’s Association and the American Waterways Operators for the new anchoring spots spurred the Coast Guard into formulating plans. Westchester County Executive Robert Astorino (R) said the plan would create “a giant parking lot” for commercial vessels close to the shore. “Once again, it appears that the federal government wants to do what it wants, where it wants, when it wants, and that’s just not OK,” he said. “I think it’s important that we don’t strike fear, but it’s important that we do strike concerns,” said Jason Baker of Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano’s (D) office. “Do we want to turn our river into an industrialized waterfront? Are we going to turn this into a major highway for crude oil? We don’t want this to happen. This is a regional problem. It’s important that we really stand up for this.” Congresswoman Nita Lowery (D) wrote in an August 10, 2016 letter to the Coast Guard, “More barges will limit the number of recreational boaters and increase the likelihood of serious accidents between boaters and barges…” Congressman Patrick Maloney (D) introduced the Hudson River Protection Act, legislation that would limit the locations oil barges could anchor, saying it was an environmental, health, and economic threat to the area to have vessels with hazardous or flammable material on the river. Maloney said, “The compression in global oil prices—we have oil now at lower than $45 a barrel—has obviated the need for a lot of this infrastructure.” In a letter to the Coast Guard, the Maritime Association of the Port of New York/New Jersey Tug and Barge Committee disagreed with that statement, saying the amount of crude oil the U.S. produces will only increase since the U.S. lifted a 40-year ban on American crude oil exports in January 2016. The proposal threatens to re-industrialize the Hudson River. The plan would clearly have far-reaching environmental impacts, including the increased potential for oil spills, damaging of the river bottom from anchors and anchor chains, which could affect endangered sturgeon and other species as well as visual, noise and light pollution from certain barges. Several accidents and spills around the country clearly show that crude oil cannot be recovered or cleaned up if it is spilled into a moving water body like the Hudson. Increased transport and storage of crude oil increases the risk of a devastating oil spill on the Hudson River, and crude oil is poison for life in the river as well as for coastal communities. The tug and barge industry requested additional anchorages to support an increase in crude oil transport. Forty-two of the forty-three berths are designated as “long-term,” which means a parking lot for barges transporting crude oil. According to Riverkeeper, the lead environmental organization fighting the increase, the oil industry wants long term storage so that that they can store oil until prices rise so they can sell it for a premium price. Anchors and chains scar and disturb the river bottom. The Hudson River is home to endangered species – Atlantic and shortnose sturgeon – that rely on the river bottom to spawn, feed, and rest. Proposed anchorage grounds could be detrimental to their survival. Barges emit air, noise, visual and light pollution. It’s critical that the Coast Guard thoroughly investigates exactly how these types of pollution will affect riverfront communities and aquatic ecosystems before deciding whether to proceed with the proposal. The proposal will have significant impacts on local communities. Communities all along the Hudson River have made significant investments in their local waterfronts. Increased vessel traffic and spoiled views could undermine local waterfront revitalization efforts that are meant to improve local economies, tourism and the quality of life in the Hudson Valley. “This is just the beginning. This is a big deal. It’s coming at a time when the river is starting to recover. It’s starting to rebound and we can’t go back. We know crude oil transport is pushing some of this, if not all of it. This request is coming from industry. We’re in this for the long haul, fighting the good fight for residents,” said Erin Doran, staff attorney for Riverkeeper. The Coast Guard is influenced by the president it serves. It initiated this request under the Obama Administration. Given the very oil friendly attitude of the Trump Administration, The Coast Guard is even more likely to move forward with this proposal. Can residents, regional organizations and NY public officials sway the outcome? Stay tuned. Sources for more information: Recordonline.com Times Herald-Record, “Public hearings sought for Hudson anchorages” July 5, 2016 Patch.com, “Officials Call for Public to Comment on Proposed Hudson River Commercial Anchorages” August 3, 2016 Epoch Times “Maloney Introduces Bill to Limit Oil Barge Anchoring Sites on the Hudson” October 5, 2016

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HIKES and EVENTS SCHEDULE continued

Sat May 27 QUEENS / FLUSHING MEADOWS CORONA PARK Event / C 2-3 mi 9:15am SHARP - Union Turnpike & Bell Boulevard, Oakland Gardens, Queens. Leader: Lewis Levy 718-690-8568 Call or Text [email protected] Must register with leader by Friday May 26th, 5:00 PM and your registration will be confirmed. Let's visit the delightful a place dedicated to the animals of North America. The highlight of this Zoo is the Aviary where you literally walk among the birds. Admission is $8.00 and $6.00 for Seniors. Look for passes from your local library and other discounts. Directions: From Long Island take the Northern State Pkwy to the Cross Island Pkwy / Union Turnpike exit and follow the signs to Union Turnpike. About 200 yards past end of exit ramp, turn right at the 1st light on to Union Turnpike. Go about 3/4 mile to Bell Blvd. and look for parking. GPS Users - 7950 Bell Blvd., Oakland Gardens (address of local library) should get you there. You can also go directly to the zoo and meet at the entrance to the zoo at 10:00 AM. Address for the zoo is 5351 111th St., Corona.

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Cassani, Ann Greene, Diane Misiano, James Palmer, Laura Young, Barbara Colquhoun, Janice Lisse, Jocelyn & Bobby Morris, Bobbie Panes, Susan Delaney, Patricia Miraglia, Steven Napolitano, Carolina & Culley, Bob Schwartz, Amanda

GIFTS Bailey, Kathy Dreschsler, Rich & Heide Giasi, John Levy, Lewis Sparks, Susan Thek, Robin Cava, Elizabeth Dufresne, Martine Hageman, Carol Lerner, Judith Sweet, Seena Wilber, Don Coleman, Mary Anne Faron, Barbara Heading, Walter Reilly, Eileen Slome, William Williams, Jerry & Noreen

Fri Jun 2 MOVIE NIGHT, BELLMORE Event 5:45pm at International Café. Leader: Don Phillips 516-721-8160. Meet at Box Office 6:45 pm, Bellmore Playhouse, 525 Bedford Ave., Bellmore, NY or Optional Meet at “International Café” (across street), 322 Bedford, Bellmore, NY (theater tel.: 516-409-5772).

Sat Jun 3 NEW CANAAN NATURE CENTER, CT - New Members Welcome C 2 mi 9:15am Lake Success $10 Leader: Seena S. [email protected]; 347-387-7788 We will take a leisurely walk and view the Birds of Prey Exhibit, explore the Arboretum & Gardens, hiking trails, Greenhouse, Visitors Center, and Nature Gift Shop. Photographers welcome. Bring camera, lunch/snacks, water, hiking/walking shoes, insect repellent. Donation. If time permits, we’ll go to the Philip Johnson Glass House, and stroll along Main Street. We can eat in a local diner or restaurant. New Canaan is considered part of Connecticut’s Gold Coast. About 1-1/2 hours from Lake Success Shopping Center. http://www.newcanaannature.org/about/index.php; 144 Oenoke Rdg, New Canaan, CT 06840

Sun Jun 4 BAYARD CUTTING ARBORETUM SLOW PACED C 6 mi 11:30am Great River train station Leaders: Ken King, 631-592-1937, [email protected], cell 516-238-7694 (day of hike only); Eileen Mahler 516-382-5804 Easy hike at one of Long Island's jewels with open meadows, lawns, marshy refuge and its conifer collection from all parts of the world. Rhododendrons and mountain laurel should be in bloom. Bring water, snack and a smile. Bring or buy lunch at the Cafe. Rain cancels. Free admission to arboretum if you walk there from station (2 mi round trip).

Sat Jun 10 ANNUAL PICNIC - Members Only Event 9:30am - 6pm at Bethpage State Park, Eagle Pavilion Wendy Pally 646-263-0999 [email protected]

Hiking, Biking, Potluck Food, Games, Raffle, plus more: More details to follow by email blasts.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO VOLUNTEER TO HELP OUT AT THE PICNIC… Please send an email to [email protected] to offer your help. IT TAKES A LOT OF HANDS AND WILL BE GREATLY APPRECIATED.

WEEKEND TRIPS Sat July 1 – Mon July 3, 2017 HARRIMAN OUTDOOR CENTER - MEMBERS ONLY EVENT Leader: Jim Ansel, [email protected], cell 516 567-9308, Saturday, July 1- Monday, July 3, 2017, AMC Harriman Outdoor Center. The Stone Lodge on Breakneck Pond. Full kitchen, baths, screened porch, common area, and fireplace. Hiking, swimming, and kayaking! Bring towels, wash cloth, toiletries and sheets. Purchase full breakfasts $9 and scrumptious dinners $19. Dining hall features an outdoor patio overlooking the pond. For meal reservations, call 603-466-2727. Three bedrooms each with double bunks. Blankets, pillow, and fresh case furnished. Lodging w/some staples $95. Send check made to James Ansel, 69 Fairview Avenue, Port Washington, NY 11050. Please include your cell & email. Cancellation Policy: full refund minus $5 up to April 24. No refund after April 24 but another member may be submitted for approval. Directions and itinerary will be provided after registration.

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HISTORY SLEEPING GIANT, MAY 11, 1982: The weather for this hike was surely made in heaven, with bright sunshine, warm breezes, and the smell of spring in the air. We arrived at Sleeping Giant State Park near New Haven, Conn (18 of us by the way) and immediately set out up the back of the Giant's head. We climbed steeply next to an old quarry and then found ourselves looking out over the top of a sheer rock cliff 150 ft. high, which was the Giant's chin. From there it was up. and down, up and down over his Chest, down his leg, across his foot, and back again. We all drank plenty of water, and were glad to have the numerous cold springs to drink from. The views from the rocky outlooks were great, farms and such in one direction, and NEW Haven and Long Island Sound in the other We all enjoyed this little jewel of a park and went home tired but satisfied with a great day and pleasant Company. Ken King for Emil Ruter

Corresponding Secretary Needed (Elected Officer Position) • Ability to check email for NHOC blasts on a daily basis • Proofread and send out email blasts submitted by hike coordinators or board members in a timely manner using the Constant Contact system. Email hike coordinators if there are questions regarding email blasts. • Update member information in the Constant Contact system • Assist members who have unsubscribed from the Constant Contact system by providing them with info for re-subscribing

All hikes and other scheduled activities for the June – July 2017 issue of Shorelines, which will cover the period from June 1st to Aug 4th MUST REACH the appropriate hike coordinator (A, B, C, and Events) BEFORE Tuesday May 2nd and all other material for Shorelines MUST REACH the Editor at [email protected], by the same date. SHORELINES: Don Wilber, 516-244-5208, [email protected] MEMBERSHIP: Wendy Pally, 646-263-0999, [email protected]. Contact Wendy if you don’t get Shorelines or need extra copies.

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