Trails & Waves

News from the New York – North Jersey Chapter of the Appalachian Mountain Club Volume 33, Issue 1 ♦ Spring 2011

She had not done much hiking until hearing about the

AMC at a party. It sounded like a fun way to meet people and get away from the city for a day. She kept showing

up for hikes weekend after weekend. Hike leaders quickly noticed this regular hiker and asked if she would consider leading. Soon she was regularly leading hikes.

In addition, our Appie was asked to become involved with the Hiking Committee. She started out running new member parties and working on the Schedule.

After awhile our Appie became Chair of the Hiking

Committee. While Chair, she initiated the last-minute hikeamc Yahoo group and a leaders-only Yahoo group,

increased the number of leaders and activities, and helped provide more leader recognition and training opportunities. She also did hours of boring work getting

those Transportation Codes updated.

Recently – until today, in fact – our Appie served on the Chapter Executive Committee. She is definitely one Photo by Frank Bamberger of the people who keeps the wheels turning in the Cynthia with her engraved Sierra Cup Chapter and has put a lot into the job. Congratulations to Cynthia Tollo With all that, our Appie can be found on the trails nearly every weekend along with her husband Stuart, Falls, 2010 Appie of the Year who she met on a Chapter-sponsored trip to the White By John Bradley, Advisory Committee Chair Mountains. She did all this while working as a Project ach year since 1979, our Chapter has honored Architect interested in green construction practices, and one member as the Appie of the Year, selected while recovering from cancer. It gives me great pleasure to present the E by the Advisory Committee. This is an individual who gives selflessly of him or herself for the good of the Appie of the Year Award to Cynthia Tollo Falls. club. They work tirelessly, often behind the scenes, organizing, and leading in fact and by example. The TRAILS & WAVES GOES Appie has served in this manner for several years, and is an active volunteer. The Appie exemplifies what is best GREEN THIS SPRING! about the volunteer ethic that makes our Club, and most Any member who still wants the paper particularly our Chapter, so special. version must notify AMC Member This year our Appie has been a very active member Services. Please see important message for about eleven years, during which she has made on page 16. several very useful contributions to the Chapter.

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB NEW YORK - NORTH JERSEY CHAPTER 1 Trails & Waves FROM THE CHAIR Vol. 33, Issue 1 Spring 2011 n Saturday evening, January 22, 2011 at the Nancy Tollefson, Editor NY-NoJ Chapter Annual Meeting and Dinner in

Manhattan there weren’t any dancing penguins, O TRAILS & WAVES is published four times a year by the although there was a “changing of the guard.” New York – North Jersey Chapter of the Appalachian Our committee chairs, leaders and other volunteers Mountain Club. Opinions expressed do not necessarily contribute their time and effort, making it possible for you reflect the views and policies of the AMC. We reserve to choose from an incredible array of activities. We are the right to decline any submission judged to be fortunate that such altruism thrives in our community. inconsistent with AMC’s purpose or not in keeping with the sensitivities of its membership. We will follow the Some AMC members who are no longer with us have general guidelines of the AMC and the Chapter. honored our Chapter in their wills, while individual members and businesses have made generous Contributions of articles and photos (high resolution jpg) are welcome. Articles may be edited for style, clarity, contributions. We are grateful to all our Chapter length and possible legal complications. The newsletter champions for their loyalty, support and trust. We are assumes no responsibility for lost material. Submission also eternally appreciative of your membership. deadlines are April 25 for Summer issue (comes out Where else can you connect with others who share a in early June), July 25 for Fall (comes out in early passion that keeps you healthy, spiritually alive, and Sept.), October 25 for Winter (comes out in early Dec.), and January 25 for Spring (comes out in early exploring places that you may never have found on your March). own? AMC members exemplify the best of the human spirit and living a life filled with magic moments. Guidelines for Newsletter Submissions Except for Mike Burke, our part-time office manager, ◊ Email preferred; typed or neatly printed written material accepted. we are a 100% volunteer-managed non-profit built upon the foundation of its membership. All our committee ◊ All submissions should be clearly labeled that they are intended for publication in the newsletter. chairs, the Executive Committee members and leaders ◊ Photos are preferred as color jpeg files attached to are unpaid volunteers, yet they derive so much from email (must be high resolution). their contribution to our Chapter. Classifieds Policy and Rates For many of us, fellow AMC members represent an extended family. At the annual dinner, we congratulated ◊ Advertising rates for classifieds are $1 per word. For Wayne Foote on being an AMC member for 50 years! a copy of the newsletter, enclose an additional $2. Please contact editor for display ad rates. Four other 50-year members were honored, although ◊ Payment must be included with the ad (check they were not able to join us: Edwin Hahn, Bernice payable to AMC NY-NoJ Chapter). Hudson, Jullianna Irelan and Edward Wicks. We also ◊ We do not provide proofs/checking copies. We have congratulated many 25-year members. What does that no liability for errors, other than the cost of the ad. tell you about what our Chapter means to our members? Recent issues of Trails & Waves are available on the As we approach the spring thaw we look forward to Chapter’s website, www.amc-ny.org. seeing you in the woods, on the water and in the mountains. If you want to really make a difference in the Send all submissions and life of another person, become a leader or invite a friend requests for advertising to: to join you on an AMC activity – perhaps they will become part of our community and discover something trailswaves[at]amc-ny[dot]org locked away within themselves.

Please give back to our Chapter by offering your time SUBMISSION DEADLINE FOR SUMMER ISSUE IS APRIL 25 and expertise as an AMC leader or volunteer; we also appreciate your help promoting the Chapter by telling those you know, work with or play with about the club. APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB NEW YORK - NORTH JERSEY CHAPTER 2 Our ability to grow and do more amazing things is very Hiking; Richard Barcia, Chapter Youth Program; and much dependent on our members and your support. Frank Bamberger, Program. I expect we will soon see As we hike, paddle and climb onwards, change is them active in other areas of the AMC – volunteerism already in the air. Our Chapter is working toward just gets into your system. When you do good, you feel bringing you information about our activities at the speed good; and if you’re also outdoors, you’re good to go! of a switch, finding ways to be more green, and making I’d also like to welcome our newest committee chairs: a difference in the lives of our fellow members while we Harold Petzold, Chapter Youth Program; Sara Hart, enjoy the outdoors together. Conservation; Fred Mader, Backpack; Steve Galla, We thank Malcolm Spector, outgoing Chapter Chair, Hiking (Interim); Susan Wallen, Bicycle; and Kate and Cynthia Tollo Falls, outgoing Activities Executive, for Whitney-Bukofzer, Trails. their contributions on the Executive Committee. We also Hike strong, paddle fast, peddle faster, ski steep, and thank the following outgoing committee chairs for their climb high! years of service: Debbie Melita, Backpack; Stacy Gould, - Carson Tang, NY-NoJ Chapter Chair

2011 Executive Committee production. This year he is Executive Producer of the Asian American/Pacific Islander Heritage Festival at Join us in welcoming the incoming Executive Committee Union Square Park on Sunday, May 8. He is founder of of the NY-NoJ Chapter, elected at the annual meeting on I-CON, the East Coast’s largest convention for science January 22, 2011: fiction, fact and fantasy, now in its 30th year. Chapter Chair Carson Tang Carson has honed his skills in maximizing human Vice Chair Richard Barcia Public Services Elissa Nemerofsky* potential by facilitating a 700-member empowerment Activities Ellen Blumenkrantz group, being contracted by the City of NY to run Treasurer Barry Wolfe* business & marketing boot camps, and leading Train the Facilities/Services Mason Logie, Jr.* Trainer workshops. Carson looks forward to bringing the Secretary Lisa Madden* WOW factor to everything he does in his AMC activities. *Continuing for a second year in their current position. Richard Barcia, Vice Chair Carson Tang, Chapter Chair Richard has been an AMC Carson is also Singles & member since 1995. He has Sociables Committee Co-Chair, been a volunteer leader, host Acting Chair of the Web and committee member with Committee, Marketing & Events the Chapter’s Fire Island Cabin Committee Chair, member of Committee. He served on the AMC's Outdoor Leadership Executive Committee during Development Committee, and a 2004-2005. He has also led Major Excursions and Hike rollerblading trips and is a Leader. regular hiker in Harriman and the Hudson Highlands. Recently he was Chapter Vice Chair, Facilities and Richard was on the committee that established the Services Executive, Spring Gathering Chair, and Hiking Chapter’s popular annual week-long Sandy Hook Committee Chair. He manages the Chapter’s excursion. He has acted as the coordinator of the participation at events such as Adventures in Travel Chapter Youth Program, and has also served as vice Expo and NY Times Travel Show. chair of the Conservation Committee. Professionally, Carson develops and produces event Richard has three daughters and works as a marketing initiatives that result in memorable Financial Consultant, with an emphasis on socially experiences. His core competency also includes responsible investing. He is an active yoga teacher at conference, retreat and boot camp development and the Integral Yoga Institute in Manhattan. (continued) APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB NEW YORK - NORTH JERSEY CHAPTER 3 Elissa Nemerofsky, rails-to-trails weekends at Mohican Outdoor Center. He Public Services is well-known for his Memorial Day whitewater rafting Elissa has been a member trips. Mason has been involved in trying to have the club of AMC for more than ten obtain a house at Sandy Hook, New Jersey. As years, and is a regular hiker in Facilities Liaison, Mason seeks to improve the overnight Harriman. She attended AMC facilities that now exist in our area and find possible sites August Camp several times, for new ones. which inspired her to serve on Lisa Madden, Secretary the August Camp Committee in Lisa has been an AMC 2009, and to create the AMC member for over eight years. August Camp Yahoo Group. She is thankful for meeting She went from being an great friends and taking great hikes through AMC, and attendee on many hikes to looks forward to continuing her involvement in Chapter leading hikes and also led a operations. few backpacks. She served Elissa is a former financial systems technology on the Hiking Committee and business analyst and volunteers at several NYC helps moderate the museums. She is passionate about the outdoors and hikeamc[at]yahoo[dot]com enjoys hiking, skiing, cycling, kayaking, and group. She enjoys the rollerblading. She also enjoys third-world travel and is an chance to be involved in Chapter operations. active and nationally-certified firefighter. Lisa enjoys fast-paced hikes, the longer the better. She also runs trail races, rock climbs, and skis. She Barry Wolfe, Treasurer works as a Project Manager in an architectural firm in Barry has been an AMC Manhattan. member for six years and participates in the Chapter's Ellen Blumenkranz, hiking and backpacking Activities programs. He also enjoys Ellen joined the AMC over nature photography and his 15 years ago, and has been work has been recognized by a hike leader for about 10 several prominent camera years. She loves sharing her clubs and photographic favorite outdoor places with organizations. Barry is a CPA and is employed in others. Most of her hikes are corporate financial management. at a moderate pace, so people can enjoy the woods Mason Logie, Jr and whatever is special about that hike. She likes to Facilities/Services lead smaller groups of 10-15 hikers. She greatly enjoys Mason joined AMC in 1995 all the friendships she has formed since she started after a friend invited him on a leading hikes, and the friendships that others who hike hike. The leader of that hike with regularly have formed with each other,. consequently asked him to join Ellen grew up spending summers in the Catskills, the AMC and lead various which involved lots of running off into the woods to pick events for the club. berries. When she went to college at New Paltz, she Since then, Mason has enjoyed hiking at Minnewaska State Park. Now, she been an event leader for loves that she lives within 30 minutes of Harriman State Singles and Sociables, Walks Park, which she considers her second home. She works and Outings, Fire Island, and Sandy Hook Committees. in Direct Marketing. For the last few years, he has also run beginner ski and APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB NEW YORK - NORTH JERSEY CHAPTER 4 ASK THE HIKE CHAIR It is very important that hikers are prepared for any hike in which they participate. Leaders have volunteered “I tried to go on a hike on Saturday but the their time in advance and have agreed to take leader wouldn’t let me join the hike because responsibility for guiding a group on a hike. Hikers also I didn’t have traction aids. Why not?” have a responsibility, starting with picking a hike that is suitable for their ability and being prepared with the Stacy Gould, NY-NoJ Chapter Hike Chair, answers: appropriate gear and attire. If unsure, a hiker should The leader determined that ground conditions were contact the leader prior to the scheduled hike. such (too much ice or snow) that some sort of traction There is a “Frequently Asked Questions” document aid was necessary for group safety reasons. Allowing on the Chapter website which hikers, especially those someone who is not properly equipped or attired poses a new to the AMC, might find helpful: www.amc- safety issue, not only for that hiker but also for the group ny.org/new_hiker_faq. There is also a document that as a whole. If something happens to the person, the specifically discusses winter hiking: www.amc- entire group must assist in any type of first aid or ny.org/recreational-activities/hiking/winter. evacuation effort. This can in turn pose a danger to the [The editor would like to put in a plug for Kahtoola group and in some instances takes hours. MicroSpikes, way better than earlier traction aids.]

Congratulations to Wayne Foote, I soon focused on hiking, climbing all of the peaks over 3,500 feet in the Catskills and all the ones over AMC Member for 50 Years! 4,000 feet in New England. I started helping with the [Editor’s Note: At the Chapter’s annual dinner on Hiking Committee, which I served as Chair for two years. January 22, Wayne Foote was honored for having been I helped prepare the Hiking schedule for the Chapter a member of the AMC for 50 years. A modest and Schedule, and also served as Editor of the Schedule generous man, Wayne has contributed to our Chapter in booklet for 10 years. so many ways over the years. I asked him to share some of his thoughts on this milestone with the club. It AMC has been like a family to me all of these years, should surprise no one that he’s still volunteering.] and volunteering for AMC has been as rewarding as if I were doing things for my own family. Yes, I joined AMC 50 years ago. It seems like yesterday. I was honored with the Chapter’s Appie of the Year award in 1992. I had just gotten out of the Navy and was going to be living in New York City. So I asked my parents, who had While I still help the Hiking Committee, most of my been active in AMC in Connecticut for many years, to AMC efforts now go into helping with the hiking program help me join, so I could start enjoying AMC activities in for AMC’s annual “August Camp,” which I have served the New York Chapter (it later became the New York- as Head Hike Leader for the last 20 years. It will be held North Jersey Chapter). To get my two letters of this year in the Canadian Rockies, in July. recommendation (that’s what was required to become a Why don’t you think about coming for one or two member in those days), I went on a Connecticut AMC weeks this summer, for some spectacular hiking?! trail-clearing trip. Following that, two Connecticut There will be water activities, too. But hurry, because members wrote letters for me. registration is filling fast. You can learn about it online at However, I soon got involved in raising a family, and I www.augustcamp.org. - Wayne Foote let AMC slide for the next 25 years, until my family grew [In June 2010 the Middlebury (CT) Land Trust officially up and moved out, and I found myself on my own, opened the “Foote Path,” a 3-mile trail crisscrossing the looking for something to do. town. Wayne blazed the trail and has worked on it for 10 years. The Waterbury Republican-American newspaper So I got active again, and jumped into some of the published an article all about it; to read more go to: wonderful activities AMC has to offer: rock-climbing, http://blogs.rep-am.com/the_outsider/2010/09/06/see- paddling, sailing, cross-country skiing, hiking. middlebury-by-foote/.]

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB NEW YORK - NORTH JERSEY CHAPTER 5 everyone wait before crossing the water. If you are AMC BACKPACKING 101 already on the other side waving cheerfully to the rest of By Christine Benton, Backpack & Hike Leader the group, you are in no position to offer help to anyone who needs it.

~ ON THE TRAIL ~ Rest Stops. After a rest stop or lunch you should not commence to stride up the trail until everyone else is f you have been following this series, you will have also ready. Take a look around and make sure everyone chosen a suitable backpacking trip and successfully has their pack on and is ready to move out. This will I and timely met up with the rest of the group. After all prevent the group from becoming strung out right at the this preparation, you are now ready to actually set foot beginning of the next section of trail. on the trail. The following are all things to be aware of. Leaving Camp. The same thing applies as for rest You are Part of a Group. As such, you are expected to stops: everyone should leave camp together. Something adhere to the trip itinerary – you are not there to do your could go wrong with a participant or their gear before own thing. You have read (or should have read) the trip leaving camp, and if you have gone marching ahead you plan and your registration indicates that you have signed will be oblivious to this fact. Also, it’s the leader’s on for this particular plan. Although any sensible responsibility to make sure everyone heads out on the suggestions might be considered by the leader, it is not right trail and in the right direction, so he or she needs to okay for you to take a different route from the rest of the keep the group together. group, go off by yourself and bag a peak not included in Bathroom Breaks. An urgent desire for a bathroom the itinerary, decide not to complete the trip (if you are break happens to the best of us. Leave your pack at the physically capable of completing it), camp in a different side of the trail so everyone stops and waits for you. site away from the group, etc., etc. Emergency Whistle. Everyone should be carrying a Pace. The trip write-up will include a description of the whistle in a handy place. In case of emergency, such as pace. Try to sign up for a trip with a pace that suits you. a fall, use your whistle to alert the rest of the group that However, it is almost inevitable that there will be a you have a problem. Here is the hiker’s emergency difference in the paces of individuals within a group. The whistle code: one blast = STOP; two blasts = COME TO leader will cope with this in various ways. ME; three blasts = COME TO ME QUICKLY! (If you The leader might split the group into a faster group and a can’t remember the code, just blow!) slower group. If you are in the faster group and are If you pay attention to these guidelines, you will asked to wait at specific points for the slower group, it is contribute to everyone having a safe and enjoyable trip. important that you do so. The leader might also ask you to always keep the person directly behind you in sight. This will help keep the group together. Waiting at Trail Junctions. This is probably one of the most important rules of hiking with a group. If you are asked to wait at a trail junction, please do so. It is very easy for someone to take a wrong trail and then you present the leader with the problem of trying to find you. Also, if someone further back is injured and needs your help, you would have no way of knowing this. Waiting at Water Crossings. Any substantial water crossing is a hazard. You may have to cross streams, creeks or rivers. Although high, fast-flowing water is an obvious danger, anyone can slip and hit their head on a rock, and, believe it or not, people have drowned in six Photo by Kathy Skura inches of water. Therefore, it is most important that APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB NEW YORK - NORTH JERSEY CHAPTER 6 Visiting the Black Bears’ Home can continue. Most likely the bear will be gone, but if not, it is best to find an alternate route. By Sara Hart, Conservation Chair ¾ Never feed a bear. When you eat on the trail, don’t n the spring most of us are filled with a burst of leave any food (or trash) behind, not even energy, and we take to the woods to feel the warming biodegradable waste such as apple cores or fruit I sun, smell the fragrant air, and be witness to the pits. Bears are opportunistic feeders and quickly stirring forest. And it sure is stirring! learn to associate food with the food source. Once The biggest, and probably hungriest, among the they are introduced to elements of human diet, they newly awakened wildlife is the black bear, a native will seek them (and us) out. resident of our North American forests for at least five ¾ Leash your pet and keep them away from bears. thousand years. After months of dormancy (they are not ¾ If you plan on camping out, make sure you are true hibernators), black bears have lost 25-40% of their aware of Leave No Trace principles regarding food body weight, so they are racing to fatten up. Males hit storage, waste disposal, etc., so you leave behind a the woods first, around mid-March; last to emerge is clean habitat not only for bears, but for all wildlife. Mama bear with her tiny cubs, weighing no more than a human newborn when they first emerge. Mama bear will For more information, you can visit the Conservation teach her cubs how to page on our Chapter’s website’s link on bear safety: become big bears. It is www.amc- best not to interfere with ny.org/node/341. The her efforts! By mid-April, all “Nature and Science” black bears will be up and pages of the Delaware about. Water Gap’s website also have some good This should not make information on black you uneasy about bears and other local venturing out. Black bears wildlife and flora are shy and solitary (www.nps.gov/dewa). animals, and they will be the first to avoid running In the mid-Atlantic into you. However, once region, we sometimes you are on the trail you are have the impression that a visitor in the black bears’ “bears are everywhere.” In fact, local bear habitat home. Your actions – and those of your fellow visitors is a mosaic within human – will influence whether or not these woods can remain a settlement, which encroaches on their foraging and home for black bears. What can you do in the woods to mating territories. Human-bear conflicts are multiplying, have fun – and keep the bears (and you) safe? and bears pay the price. They are either shot or at best relocated to remote areas unfamiliar to them. This is a ¾ Avoid a close encounter! Stay alert, make noise, struggle that will not disappear – until either humans or watch the direction of the wind, and approach sharp bears do. turns or overgrown sections in the trail with caution. Black bears require large swaths of intact forest to ¾ If you see a bear near the trail, stop. Raise your thrive. So do we, enthusiasts of the outdoors! arms to appear large – this will probably prompt the Safeguarding their habitat, and making the right bear to run away. If not, slowly back away. Never decisions on the trail will ensure that our trips to the charge a bear or threaten it. If it has not moved off at black bear’s home protect the bears, as well as our first sight, cubs may be nearby or there may be a prospects to visit them for many springs to come. food source that the bear doesn’t want to abandon. At a safe distance, wait a few minutes to see if you Happy trails!

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB NEW YORK - NORTH JERSEY CHAPTER 7 Manhattan park to another, culminating in Highbridge Park. As the years went by, he sometimes had a cane, but he walked almost every day, all year round. One of my strongest memories is of Franz steadfastly negotiating a huge snowdrift in the park, just a few years ago. It turns out that these long park walks were just the tip of the iceberg. Franz recalled his first excursions outside his birthplace, Vienna. There were large parks as well as the Wienerwald (the Vienna Woods – a forested group of hills and a favorite outdoor destination for Viennese) for the family to frequent. These trips were all day affairs and Franz’s eyes twinkled when he told me how he once had to “fight our way through herds of sheep.” But most impressive of all – at least to a climbing wimp like me – was Franz’s revelation that his Photo by Stuart Mills real passion was climbing the 6,000-foot-high mountains In May, Franz and Annice walked (from the parking lot) to nearby. He was introduced to rock climbing in his teens, the summit of Mt. Mitchell in North Carolina. by a chemistry teacher, during regular weekend school

outings. He learned the ropes under the teacher’s Fitness Secrets of a watchful eye, but eventually felt confident to strike out on 100-year-old Man his own, learning a valuable lesson: there are no thrills without risks. Always wanting a greater challenge, Franz By Nancy Bruning set out on a familiar climb, but decided to give himself [This article is re-printed with permission from the December 15, 2010, issue of Manhattan Times.] “some handicaps” – hobnailed hiking boots instead of hemp-soled rock climbing boots, a heavy backpack, and n Nov. 30, long-time Washington Heights a downward climb instead of upward. He landed in the resident Franz Alt turned 100. Considering the hospital, “but that didn’t stop me,” he says, “it made it O life expectancy for a white, American male is more interesting!” 75, this sounds pretty good to me. Fifty years ago, Skiing was another passion and, back in the day, comedian Mel Brooks’ fictional character, the 2,000 getting there was half the fun and most of the effort. He Year-old Man, shared his secret: “I nevah, evah eat fried would take the train and then walk several miles to his foods – I wouldn't touch it. I wouldn't look at it. Gimme a ultimate destination. In those pre-ski-lift days, he and his peach or a plum or a nectarine." While this seems like friends would climb up the slope for two hours and then sound advice, even coming from a fictional person, what, race down. I wondered, was the real-life Franz’ secret to longevity? Franz emigrated to the U.S. in 1938 and fit in fitness Franz and his wife Annice are my neighbors, so as best he could: walking with his wife and children, setting up an interview was easy. skiing in Colorado while with the 10th Mountain Division, “I don’t do anything special,” was his initial answer to hiking in the mountains and parks while living in my question. But, with a bit of prodding, I discovered that Washington, D.C. (A responsible man, he gave up rock nothing could be further from the truth. Franz spent climbing temporarily until his children were grown.) In much of his free time walking, hiking, rock climbing, and 1968 he moved to Washington Heights and joined and skiing. I knew he was a great walker because I had often led hiking groups frequenting nearby parks and hiking seen him – sometimes alone, sometimes with Annice – trails, including Harriman State Park. He gave up rock walking in Fort Tryon Park. He also participated in Hike climbing for good at age 73 when he married his second the Heights, an annual urban hike from one Northern wife, Annice (whom he met thanks to hiking, by the way),

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB NEW YORK - NORTH JERSEY CHAPTER 8 but continued to hike and “make the rounds” of Fort [Nancy Bruning is a health & fitness author, a certified Tryon Park. personal trainer, and leads outdoor fitness experiences Of course there’s more to longevity, as Annice points and weight loss workshops. Visit her website at out. “He always ate a sensible diet. He was never www.NancyBruning.net.]. overweight,” she says. “In later years, it helped that he [Editor’s Note: Franz and Annice Alt belong to the AMC, was married – someone who knows you well can spot as well as to several other hiking clubs. Annice reports signs of illness – it’s a good idea to be close to people,” that in November 2010 they hiked Mt. Aramah just she adds. He loves music and played violin from the age outside Harriman State Park. “Granted,” she said, of eight, and continues to play chamber music. “His work “Richard Barr drove us up to Arden House, and we was intellectually stimulating and he’s always had a walked from the parking lot. We were met at the top by strong sense of social justice,” she added. New York Ramblers.” Thanks to Naola Gersten-Woolf for bringing this article to our attention.] And, for the record, he almost never eats fried food.

Trails Stewardship: Pelham Bay Spotlight Tanya McCabe is once again leading the paddling By Kate Whitney-Bukofzer, Trails Chair segment while this year, Conservation Chair Sara Hart, assisted by Kenneth West, Urban Trails Supervisor, will his Spring and Summer, the easily accessible handle the land contingent. This is always a satisfying Pelham Bay Park in the Bronx will be the location event – and City Island with its many fine restaurants is of two special projects, in addition to the regular T nearby for après cleanup food and drink. maintenance of the Chapter-sponsored Siwanoy Trail. This year’s event will begin at 8:30am to take th 5 Annual Lagoon Cleanup advantage of the high tides necessary to float the On May 14, the fifth annual lagoon cleanup will be collected debris across the lagoon. If you would like to held on the shores of the lagoon behind Orchard Beach. join us, contact Tanya, tanyagmy[at]yahoo[dot]com, or Far from the bustling beach crowds, this lagoon is a Sara, Sarahart[at]me[dot]com. peaceful area for paddlers (including local colleges’ crew MillionTreesNYC teams), bird watchers, and hikers. The site of the original Pelham Bay, since obliterated with the This summer, as part of the ongoing challenge of construction of Orchard Beach in the 1930’s, the lagoon maintaining the Siwanoy Trail which is increasingly traps a most interesting variety of flotsam and jetsam assaulted by invasive weeds, AMC will participate in with every storm. Since last year’s cleanup was NYC’s Reforestation Stewardship Program. We seek cancelled due to bad weather and there have been additional AMC volunteers to join in the effort. many major storms, there is a lot to clean up – and to Initial training will be at the Arsenal in Central Park on provide a most satisfying experience to participants. May 14, with field training in Pelham Bay Park. A joint event among AMC paddlers, trail maintainers Volunteers must attend three training sessions and and, this year, the Chapter Conservation Committee, the commit to volunteer 12 hours over the summer in event is also sponsored by the NYC Dept. of Parks and weeding and removing invasives at Pelham Bay. Kate Recreations and the Friends of Pelham Bay Park. Whitney-Bukofzer, Trails Chair, has already volunteered. Paddlers are needed to tackle large, floating objects Other interested individuals should contact Kate at while a land-based crew collects smaller materials. etakwhit[at]aol[dot]com or 914-261-5378. To volunteer at Bagged debris is normally ferried to the waiting garbage other work sites (Alley Pond, Clove Lakes or Marine trucks across the lagoon by less experienced paddlers in Parks), contact Susan Kornacki 212-360-8237 or canoes provided by the Dept. of Parks and Recreation susan.kornacki[at]parks.nyc[dot]gov. under the watchful eyes of the Urban Park Rangers. Our work will help give trees recently planted through This event truly brings folks together in common the MillionTreesNYC program a chance to grow! purpose!

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB NEW YORK - NORTH JERSEY CHAPTER 9

Photo by Kurt Navratil Loretta Brady still on the water

The Rise and Fall – and Rise bargained for. On the second day of the instructional, she ran the practice run on the Delaware’s Class 2 of a Beginner Paddler section so smoothly, she never swam. Not once. By Loretta Brady “That was the most fun I’ve had in 10 years,” Renee

confided, after the congratulatory hoots had died down. It was really my first time, but who wants that She didn’t have to tell me. I could see the proud broadcasted? expression in all the graduates’ eyes as they peeled out I had built up every romantic expectation of paddling: of their last eddy. I could see them because I was expeditions through primordial jungles, maneuverings watching from the take-out shore. Oh, it’s not that I down frothy rapids. My resolve was set after a vacation wasn’t well taught. Victoria Butler helped me nail wet in the Amazon – my friend talked me into a rafting trip at exits while deftly scooping up paddle and boat. Butch the source waters in Quito. Nothing could be more Futrell helped me realize that whitewater kayaks can go hypnotic than watching the safety kayaker punch straight. Michelle Sholtis’ pointers on braces supplied through a curl, or spill gracefully over the tongue of a enormous psychological support for a wobbly beginner. sparkling pourover. I wanted to be THAT guy. No, my fall from grace resulted from another obstacle to Determined, my first hurdle was the registration the beginner’s meteoric rise in boating: hypothermia. I survey for the AMC whitewater kayak instructional. I envied the folks who had taken the February indoor pool was convinced it was only meant to screen out needy lessons. novices. I didn’t exactly lie so much as stretch the truth. But I knew I wasn’t giving up. Experience? You betcha! Rivers, lakes and oceans. Thankfully, the AMC paddling season was just getting That is, I’d sent a rowboat in circles on the Hudson, underway. After snagging a great deal on an EMS dry knocked about in a giant aluminum camp canoe (more top, I signed up for tamer-water instructionals, especially drum than vessel), and pulled tired swimmers from the Jeff Gregg and Carter Bland’s sessions on canoes and surf with a Red Cross rescue board the size of a dining sea kayaks. I learned to use words like comb and room table. They just couldn’t reject me and my bladder in nautical sentences. I realized that every boat Olympic-sized eagerness and triathlete build. I responds (or disobeys!) with a distinct personality that practically lived in the water each summer. Besides, must be heeded. I built up my confidence as I sensed how hard could it be? I mean, you’re sitting down. how much power my rotating torso actually has. I talked my more legitimately experienced friend into It was not without challenges. Carter almost coming along, and we both got far more than we cancelled his sea kayaking class held on the Hudson, up APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB NEW YORK - NORTH JERSEY CHAPTER 10 near Beacon, NY. “I understand if you want to cancel to to wonder about the ratio of preparatory fuss to fun. Is avoid dealing with the gusts and swells we’ll face the effort required for lessons, dealing with the learning tomorrow,” he explained to each of us in a personal curve, gear prep, car topping your boat and driving worth phone call. “Do I want a refund? Not a chance!” each the few hours of actual paddling? No doubt. Within beginner had replied. What could be better than getting seconds of launching a boat into river, lake, or sea, the tips from the master on handling a trifecta of wind, tide, gravel parking lot is long behind me, and I’m there in the and surf? With the invaluable help of his wife, Robin, zone, the wildlife refuge – my refuge. and Victoria Butler, we hacked our way through the One caution, though. I never get much sleep the worst of it, always slack-jawed as we realized that the night before a trip. It’s not because I rise at 5am to take guy shouting instructions over the spray was paddling in a train to New Jersey to carpool, though I often do. As place, backwards. “no car, no boat Brady” (my hazing nickname), I depend The best instruction just may be lots of practice trips, upon the kindness of strangers. I feel like a Dickensian with feedback from experienced paddlers. On an AMC orphan whose hidden noble ancestry emerges later in trip, there’s always plenty of that – even when you want the plot. to be left alone! At first, I wasn’t sure that I’d still be Paddlers new to AMC tell me that not having a car is learning enough on some trips. I thought riding tandem the biggest deterrent to their continuing to paddle with bow was akin to sitting in the child’s seat in a shopping the club, even after they have completed the great AMC cart. How important could it be? But when paddling and instructionals. They couldn’t be more wrong – not having portaging among the bends on the historic Millstone a car is often a blessing, allowing stimulating road talk River, or around the sunken logs in the Wallkill, a good with history buffs like Tom Trevor and forging bonds I cross-bow draw wins appreciative esteem from your hope will last a lifetime with folks like Fran Schultz, Kurt stern-man. And when bow and stern swerve in sync Navratil and Jeff Gregg. with a smooth, unspoken pivot turn to get those high No, the reason I don’t get much pre-trip sleep is that flying cranes in view? Well, that’s just magical. Thanks I’m always so excited about getting out on the water. So to my teacher, Jeff Gregg. many sections of rivers stand out in my mind. It’s still Then something else happened. At the Mohican hard for me to comprehend a whole river, but numerous Outdoor Center canoe instructional, we were learning to specific scenes are burned indelibly in my heart: the skull, lean, and turn with precision. We watched some of scent of Pine Barren cedars, the sepia tone of tannen- the best in the club – Rich Breton, Lenny Grefig, Henry rich waters, the mysterious swirl as a boil comes to life, Shreiber, Kurt Navratil, Charles Michener and Chris the flight of a heron, those playfully swimming otters. Viani – as they modeled their mastery. In the same I doubt this sleepless exhilaration will fade, even boats we were using, it seemed their paddles had when I’m no longer a beginner. motors attached: every movement purposeful; elegant. All my excess corrections now seemed vulgar to me. READY TO TAKE THE PLUNGE? Since then, I’ve begged and bartered (usually with brownies), to try someone’s solo canoe on a trip. Which Come join us for our Wednesday evening pool meant I had to face one of my biggest fears. sessions at NJIT in Newark, NJ (public trans. available). Learn some basic kayaking skills and how to “Er, excuse me,” I address my paddle mates, “Would roll, so you will be ready to rumble come paddling anyone mind if I try solo awhile, even if I struggle to keep season. No equipment or experience needed – just up with your pace?” So far the response has been only bring your positive attitude and desire to learn. These positive; everyone wants to encourage each other to classes are great for both experienced paddlers looking continue to learn. It’s also meant some great to improve their skills as well as first timers looking to get conversations with the sweeper at the back of the group. their feet wet. Sessions are 8-10:30pm on 3/2, 3/9, 3/23 Which brings me back to where I started, sort of. I’ve and 3/30. For additional information, visit us online at: zealously circled the dates for the 2011 AMC open boat www.amc-ny.org/recreational-activities/canoe. whitewater classes for solo canoes. Bring it on! I used

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB NEW YORK - NORTH JERSEY CHAPTER 11 AMC Spring Fling at Mohican and the Three-Dog Day By Elizabeth Alvarez

hen I read about the “Spring Fling” weekend at Mohican Center in the Delaware Water WGap in Trails & Waves, I immediately liked the sound of it. Conjuring up a sense of relaxed, outdoorsy fun, it seemed like the perfect antidote for my life at the time – the last two years had been difficult and I was ready for some fun. When I couldn’t recruit any of my hiking pals, I decided to go solo. Maybe I’d even meet a nice single guy. another reason I wanted to stay at Mohican for an entire weekend: so I could start my day already in the woods. I took Friday off from work so I could drive up early with an AMC member who gave me a lift in return for My only complaint – if you could call it that – was shared travel expenses. It was an idyllic spring day and “Too many hikes, too little time.” There were numerous I was happy to have the chance to explore and settle in hikes offered each day geared for different abilities, as before the other guests arrived. After the drive, I was no well as trips to historic Millbrook Village and the Lakota longer a complete stranger: I had already gotten to know Wolf Preserve. There were also local twilight and one of the 100 expected guests. nighttime hikes. My favorite was the “Three Lake Hike” led by David Scranton, with its lovely views of Kittatinny I stayed in the newly refurbished, 2-bedroom Sun-Set Lake. The trail offered ample shade to keep us Cabin. It was immaculate, with a modern bathroom and comfortable on the 80+ degree day and boasted some kitchen, and just a short walk from the dining hall. Food wildlife sightings: a large black snake and water snakes throughout the weekend was abundant and tasty. I in the lake. Further along, we saw some beautiful enjoyed the dining hall with its long, communal tables; I rhododendron and spring wildflowers. deliberately moved around so I would meet new people. The best part of the hike for me was lunch at Crater Friday night was a BYOB gathering with a light buffet Lake, where we rested on large, smooth rocks and a music jam with the “The Mohican House Band,” overlooking the clear lake. In the midst of this peaceful featuring a lot of familiar tunes you could sing along to. setting, something large, tan and furry raced past us on It was a fun and low-key way to get to know one’s fellow the rocks, followed by two more similar creatures, all hikers. Though a few people disappeared for an early leaping over the rocks and bounding toward the lake. A bedtime, the rest of us relaxed with more beer, wine, couple came running after them and apologized for the songs, and later enjoyed a starry, albeit dark, walk back intrusion of their three large Golden Retrievers. No to our cabins. I made a mental note to bring a flashlight apology was needed: they were three of the friendliest for the Saturday night activities, which included Irish dogs I’d ever met. Their exuberance was infectious; we Dancing and a campfire sing-a-long with s’mores. all gathered at the water’s edge watching this three-ring Throughout the weekend, people kept saying that it circus. Soon we, too, were running along the rocks and was just like summer camp. That’s an experience I’ve calling out to the friendly pack. I realized that these three never had, but I caught on quickly and found the rural dogs personified what Spring Fling is all about: jumping setting and activities a welcome change. in, having fun, living in the moment. On Saturday morning I woke early. When I stepped If you are considering attending the 2011 Spring outside into the warm sunshine, I was startled by the Fling, I say go with an open mind and an open heart – beautiful reflection of trees and clouds on Catfish Pond. but, go! As I walked to breakfast, I glimpsed two wild rabbits [This year’s Spring Fling is April 29-May 1. Call 603- camouflaged against the rocks. I was reminded of 466-2727 or go to: www.outdoors.org/lodging/mohican.]

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB NEW YORK - NORTH JERSEY CHAPTER 12 IN MEMORIAM Mountain Gate facility in the Catskills, hosts at the Fire Peter Van de Water Island cabin, and leaders of major excursions. Pete was also a member of the Catskill 3500 Club, Appalachian 13 October 1926 – 19 November 2010 Trail Conference, and the New York-New Jersey Trail

Conference.

In his "spare time" Pete also loved whitewater

canoeing, something that Betty also loved, and they competed in canoes and kayaks for several years in the northeast. Some of the most fun moments their daughter Sally had with her dad were paddling a canoe together. Susan remembers the time they went out cross-country

skiing and got turned around in the dark woods and had

some close moments before they found their way out.

Pete retired (for the third time) in 2000, and this time he really meant it. Pete and Betty loved to travel, and they became tour leaders. They researched destinations and then led groups on great adventures down canals in France, to the Galapagos Islands and to Bali, among

others. They would probably be enjoying that endeavor

to this day if not for Pete discovering he had a spinal Peter Coakley Van de Water was born on October tumor that robbed him of the use of his legs. 13, 1926 in New York City. His parents, Jack and Ruth In 2004, Peter and Betty moved to Air Force Village II Van de Water, were renowned for their love of hiking in San Antonio, TX, where they gained a wonderful new and mountain climbing, and were active participants in family of friends. Even in that relatively short time, his the Appalachian Mountain Club. new friends came to know the most important thing Pete moved with his family to Omaha, Nebraska, about Peter C. Van de Water – in the face of almost where he met his future wife, Betty, in high school. They inconceivable adversity he could always find joy in life. both attended the University of Iowa, marrying on We will always remember his cheerful, upbeat and November 24, 1948. Pete served in the US Army at the optimistic outlook. His family is truly touched by the tail end of World War II, and then attended college at the outpouring of affection for Pete and the many warm University of Iowa, earning a Bachelor of Science in remembrances of how he inspired so many of you to find Commerce in 1949. Pete earned a Masters of Science the joy, and to never, never, never give up. in Business at Columbia University in 1950. Pete is survived by his wife, Betty; his daughter, Dr. In 1950 he returned to the US Army, this time in the Susan Van de Water; his daughter, Sally and husband Reserve, and also took a job with The New York Kent Ernsberger; and his granddaughter Angela Telephone Company, where he had many interesting Ernsberger. He is also survived by his brother David and jobs during his 38 years with the company. Pete and his wife Jeanne; their children, Mark and wife Melinda; family lived in Closter, NJ, and then Armonk, NY. Nancy McPherson and husband Chris; Eric and wife Pete was very involved in local town government and Diane; and Dave’s grandchildren and great volunteer work, accumulating many awards of grandchildren. appreciation. He was an active member of the Donations in Pete's honor may be made to The Appalachian Mountain Club (1960-2010), serving as Appalachian Mountain Club. Pete was a member of the Vice Chair and Chair of the New York-North Jersey New York-North Jersey Chapter (381 Park Ave. South, Chapter (1986-89), and on the Board of Directors and as New York, NY 10016-8806). Vice President (1991-97). Pete and Betty also volunteered as AMC canoe instructors, staff at the

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB NEW YORK - NORTH JERSEY CHAPTER 13 COMMITTEE NOTICES

Play Softball in Central Park experienced in organizing events, doing fund raisers, writing press releases, or in building rehabilitation. We’re AMC Softball season is nearly upon us! We play two seeking volunteers who are team players and work well games every Sunday from April to September – everyone is with others. If you have questions, please contact Mason welcome. Don’t worry if you feel rusty, or if you have never Logie, Jr., Facilities/Services Liaison, at 718-273-1813, played before. We encourage a fun environment, where 347-628-6017 (cell), or mlogiejr[at]aol[dot]com. everyone can participate. This is not an overly competitive atmosphere, and we don’t take ourselves too seriously (that Leave No Trace Trainer Course April 1-3 at can take the fun out of the game quickly). We even supply Mohican – Scholarships Available! the equipment! Who would like to hike, learn Leave No Trace (LNT) See the Sunday schedule for meeting time and details. All principles, socialize, and receive a $50 scholarship while AMC members and friends (invited as guests, accompanied doing it? Just contact the committee chair for the activity by the member) are welcome to play one or both games. you most often participate in and tell them you’re interested in a scholarship for the April 1-3 LNT course

at Mohican. As long as you agree to talk about LNT a member of our New York-North Jersey Calvin Artke, principles at future AMC activities that you participate in Chapter, quietly passed away not long ago. The Chapter (and why else take the training?), the chair will needs to contact those who knew him personally. Please recommend you for a scholarship. Scholarship checks contact us if you knew Calvin or if you know someone who will be mailed to participants a short time after they knew him. Any information would be greatly successfully complete the weekend training. appreciated. Please contact Chapter Chair, Carson Tang, Chair[at]amc-ny[dot]org, 347-689-9090, or Chapter Vice Participants receive introductory training in LNT skills Chair, Richard Barcia, ViceChair[at]amc-ny[dot]org. and ethics in a condensed two-day format, so they can pass on LNT ethics to others who enjoy the outdoors. PADDLESPORT EXHIBITION March 25 - 27, 2011 The member cost of $142 (minus your $50 scholarship) includes two nights lodging, two breakfasts, Saturday Do you already paddle with us? Come out and help social hour/dinner. To register, call 603-466-2727 or go promote the club at the next Paddlesport Exhibition. We are to www.outdoors.org/lodging/mohican. looking for volunteers to help plan our involvement with the event, as well as to spend time meeting participants and Wilderness First Aid Course talking about their AMC paddling experience at our booth. Learn how to prevent many outdoors emergencies, and This is a great opportunity to increase our paddling what to do should one occur. The next scheduled community and let people know that the AMC is not just for courses are Saturday and Sunday, March 12-13, in hiking. For additional information about the event, see the Newark, NJ (public transportation is available), and two Jersey Paddler website at: www.jerseypaddler.com/paddle- consecutive Sundays, April 3 & 10, at Sterling Forest sport/126.html. If you’d like to get involved, please contact Visitor Center. Member cost of $65 includes textbook us at: AMC_CKC_Membership411[at]Yahoo[dot]com and certification on successful completion; ask your Join us on Facebook! Connect with our paddling activity chair about a possible scholarship. For more info community by searching for: Appalachian Mountain Club and to register, go to www.amc-ny.org/wfaclass. New York- North Jersey Canoe and Kayak Committee. Sandy Hook Committee Meets April 6 Plan for the Future with a Gift to the Chapter The New/Old Sandy Hook Committee will meet on For years, many of our members have supported their Wednesday, April 6, to discuss the future of Sandy Hook Chapter long after their passing. You, too, can share and the possibility of the Chapter obtaining a facility there. your passion for outdoors recreation with future We will also be meeting with Page Cowley, a well-known generations through a special gift or by including the building rehabilitation specialist, to discuss the various ways Chapter in your will. Your bequest must specify the we might work toward developing such a facility. The “New York-North Jersey Chapter of the Appalachian meeting will be held on April 6 at 5:30pm, at Page Ayres Mountain Club" as the "Legatee" if you intend for your Cowley Architects, located at 10 East 33rd Street in gift to be used by our Chapter. If you have already Manhattan. All interested club members are welcome to named the Chapter in your will, please let us know so we attend. We are especially looking for members who are can thank you for your generous gift. APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB NEW YORK - NORTH JERSEY CHAPTER 14 CLASSIFIEDS

Paint and Hike This Summer With Georgia O'Keeffe BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL Join AMC leaders Barry and Kathy Skura in World Tour - New York City & Suffern, NY Northern New Mexico August 21-August 27, Travel with us through two hours of magnificent 2011. Learn about Georgia O’Keeffe’s life and art. cinematography: mountaineering, climbing, skiing, Walk and paint the landscape that inspired her so mountain culture & environment much. Develop your own artistic vision on moderate hikes of mountains and canyons. Stay New York City at historic Taos B&B with studio space and pool. March 6, 7 & 8, 2011, at 7:30pm Contact: Bskura[at]optonline[dot]net, 914-779- Peter Norton Symphony Space, Broadway at 95th St. 0936 or www.hikingandart.org Tickets at Symphony Space, or 212-864-5400, or www.symphonyspace.org (handling charge by phone and online). In advance at Paragon Sports, Broadway at 18th UTAH’S NATIONAL PARKS. 15-day (April 25 - May St., 212-255-8036 or www.paragonsports.com 10, 2011) grand hiking and sightseeing tour including Suffern, NY (Rockland County) spectacular Bryce, Zion, Capital Reef, Canyonlands, March 2, 2011, at 7:00pm Arches, Grand Staircase-Escalante and Dinosaur Lafayette Theater, 97 Lafayette St. (Rt. 59). National Monuments. For detailed itinerary and Tickets in advance at Ramsey Outdoor (in Paramus, prospectus visit www.appalachianhikers.org or send an Ramsey, and Succasunna, NJ) and at NJ Rock Gym e-mail to info[at]appalachianhikers[dot]org. For additional info, film list and directions visit: www.chestnutmtnproductions.com

EMPLOYEE RIGHTS LAWYER. My name is Bruce CUSTOM MADE HIKING BOOTS Bernstein and I am an AMC hike leader and an attorney who is committed to advancing and protecting the rights www.johncaldenboots.com of employees. I practice in NJ and NY, and I represent employees in matters concerning wrongful discharge, GREGORY REALITY BACKPACK AND EXTRAS FOR discrimination, sexual harassment, whistle-blowing and SALE. Size medium. Used, but in excellent condition; severance package negotiations. For more information compare new at $200, asking only $100. Includes used please go to: www.bbernstein-law.com. Free phone Slumber Jack sleeping bag and Gossamer Gear consultation is available at 201-634-1999. sleeping pad. Call Mike at 201-745-0437 before 10pm.

Personals

COTTAGES in friendly, historic, 3-season wooded INTERNATIONAL EDUCATOR/COOKBOOK AUTHOR Westchester co-op community. Pool, tennis, hiking, wifi Warm, petite, blue-eyed blonde, female baby boomer cafe. One hour from NYC by Metro North train. $35- seeks interesting male. Passions: walking tours, cabaret, $95,000. Call Mel at 347-715-3735 or go to: musical theater, concerts, comedy, the Strand, dogs, www.reynoldshills.org/bungalowshop. world travel (Xian to Goa), swimming, songwriting, and dining out (greasy spoon to grand). Box 4167, New York, NY, 10163-4167 SUNNY, STYLISH BERKSHIRE “HILLTOWN” RETREAT WITH SUNSET VIEWS SEEKING A SPECIAL WOMAN! Fun, handsome, fit, Middlefield, Mass. 4BR/2BA (sleeps 8). $1500/wk. well-educated NYC guy in his early 60’s seeks a loving, Call 914-241-0689 or 212-666-1882 smart and romantic woman for a long-term relationship. www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p229125 Send e-mail to: rayschnei[at]aol[dot]com.

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB NEW YORK - NORTH JERSEY CHAPTER 15

NON-PROFIT ORG. Trails & Waves U.S. POSTAGE PAID Appalachian Mountain Club New York – No. Jersey Chapter 381 Park Ave. South PERMIT NO. 766 New York, NY 10016-8806 RAHWAY, NJ 212-986-1430 www.amc-ny.org

TRAILS & WAVES GOES

GREEN THIS SPRING!

Three other AMC chapters have already adopted a more green-conscious role in these difficult economic times. Our Chapter is also pitching in, doing our part saving trees, reducing paper usage and creating financial sustainability for the Chapter. Accordingly, our Trails & Waves newsletter goes paperless as of the next issue. If you still want the paper version you MUST NOTIFY AMC MEMBER SERVICES: 1) call 800-372-1758 (weekdays 9-5); OR 2) go to www.outdoors.org/membercenter and elect to receive the newsletter in printed format. If you are already viewing Trails & Waves (with color photos!) at www.amc-ny.org, thank you for doing something good for the Chapter and for the environment.

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB NEW YORK - NORTH JERSEY CHAPTER 16