Buckeye Trail Association Trailblazer Founded 1959 SUMMER 2013 Volume 46 No. 2

­Buckeye TrailFest 2013 At our cookout at Penitentiary Glenn Reservation on Friday evening of the Buckeye TrailFest, Lake Metropark staff, Wendy Petting let us know on all the tables were little canvases and Sharpies of all colors. We were asked to draw what Earth Day meant to us. Wendy and staff will be making a large collage on a wall at the visitor center with the canvases not only created by Buckeye TrailFest participants but also many created thru other programs and events.

In this issue... 2 BTA Scholarship News 7 Bits & Pieces 14 A Series of Remarkable 3 Election Results 8 Buckeye TrailFest 2013 ­Experiences and Other Hiking Life Lessons 4 Schedule of Hikes & Events 10 Buckeye TrailFest 2014 15 Support the Buckeye Trail While 6 Little Loop Tales 11 The Great Oak Supporting a Library 6 BTA Little Loop Patches 11 Welcome New Members 16 Highlights of BTA Board Meetings Available 12 The Places We’ll Go for a Friend 16 BTeasers 6 Have You Hiked the Whole 13 BTA Funds Report Buckeye Trail? BTA Scholarship News Elmo Layman

We were privileged this year to have two outstanding applicants for the BTA scholarships. The first is Maria Dimengo, who lives in the Cleveland area and is completing her mas- ters degree in nonprofit management at Case Western Reserve. Maria is writing grants for nonprofit organizations that are working in conservation projects, developing strate- gies for them to sustain themselves into the future. We wish her well in her career. Trailblazer Our other scholarship winner is Matthew McLain from Oxford, . He is complet- ing his master's degree program at Ohio University. His degree work is in environmental Published Quarterly by the Buckeye Trail Association, Inc. education; he hopes to work for the US Forest Service. Matt will be working this summer P.O. Box 254 with youth in the Student Conservation Association on a project in California. Matt has Worthington, Ohio 43085 had two unique experiences: in 2010 he thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail and in 2012 Circulation: 1,200 he thru-canoed the Mississippi River. Matt stated on his scholarship application that he Lisa Daiber views trails as a major way to protect our natural landscape and help others interact with Editor nature in an ever-detached world. We also wish Matt success in his chosen field. Darlene Karoly Production

DEADLINES Deadlines for submission are February 1 for the Spring issue, May 1 for the Summer issue, August 1 for the Fall issue, and November 1 for the Winter issue. Scholarship Recipients: Maria Dimengo and SUBMISSIONS Matthew McLain Lisa Daiber 2369 Suncrest Drive Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio 44221 [email protected]

ADVERTISING Andrew Bashaw 740-777-6BTA (6282) [email protected]

Disclaimer: The articles and all ­ information in this publication have been ­prepared with utmost care. However, neither the Buckeye Trail Association nor the Editor can ­guarantee accuracy or ­completeness of information. Opinions expressed in the articles, columns and paid advertising are not necessarily those of the BTA.

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2 BTA Trailblazer Summer 2013 www.buckeyetrail.org The Buckeye Trail Association Board of Trustees, Term 2013-2016, Election Ballot Election of 5 Candidates to the by BTA Members. Please check up to 5 boxes for the candidates below. Print Your Name: Date: 4/28/13

BTA Board of Franchot Ballinger, Cincinnati, OH Trustees “I retired from the University of Cincinnati at the beginning of 2004 after a 37 year career teaching English. Officers Election Results Since 2005 I have been a spiritual care volunteer at a Hospice of Cincinnati in-patient unit. I have been a Cin- Melissa Reed, President cinnati Nature Center volunteer for 30 years. My wife, Henrietta, and I became life-time BTA members in Constance Pond, Vice President It would be fitting to thank the four outgoing trustees for their years of service and to 2005.” Ruth Brown, Secretary congratulate the re-elected and new trustees. Patrick Hayes and Byron Henry were re- Debbie Zampini, Treasurer elected. Franchot Ballinger, Dan Crandall and LizDeBraal were elected to three-year The Buckeye Trail Association Board of Trustees, Term 2013-2016, Election Ballot Trustees terms. Scott Kamph was appointed for a term of two years to fill the seat vacated by TheElection Buckeye of 5 Candidates Trail Association to the by BTA Board Members. of Trustees,Please check Term up to 5 2013 boxes- 2016,for the Electioncandidates Ballotbelow. Deven Atkinson, Franchot Ballinger, Election of 5 Candidates to the by BTA Members. Please check up to 5 boxes for the candidates below. Dan Crandall, Liz DeBraal, Pat Hayes, Elizabeth Bender. Here is some biographical information about the four new trustees. Print Your Name: Date: 4/28/13 Byron Henry, Mark Henry, Scott Kamph, Print Your Name: Date: 4/28/13 John Knouse, Darryl Smith, Adrian Vanko Dan Crandall, Cleveland, OH DanFranchotThe is currentlyBuckeye Ballinger, the Trail Cleveland Cincinnati, Association Metroparks OH Board Manager of of Trustees, Visitor Services. Term Last 2013 year,-2016, Dan created Election a new Ballot Franchot Ballinger, Cincinnati, OH Franchot Ballinger, Cincinnati, OH BTA Staff & Metroparks“IElection retired from ofKids 5 Candidatesthe Club University encouraging to the of Cincinnatiby kids BTA to Members.make at the a beginningconnection Please checkof with 2004 upnature after to 5 throughaboxes 37 year for activities, careerthe candidates teaching exploration below. English. and “I retired from the University of Cincinnati at the beginning of “I retired from the University of Cincinnati at the beginning of 2004 after a 37 year career teaching English. COMMITTEE CHAIRS specialSincePrint 2005events. Your I have Dan Name beenis also: a spiritualan accomplished care volunteer runner, at and a Hospice has participated of Cincinnati in 5ks, in - halfpatient - marathons, unit. Date: I have triathlons 4/28/13 been a andCin- Andrew Bashaw 2004 after a 37 year career teaching English. Since 2005 I have been thecinnatiSince Cleveland 2005 Nature I Marathon.have Center been volunteer a“I spiritual believe for caremy 30 background years.volunteer My atwife, and a Hospice workHenrietta, experience of Cincinnati and I became with in Cleveland-patient life-time unit. Metroparks BTA I have members been and a inbeing Cin- Buckeye Trail Association Executive Director a spiritual care volunteer at a Hospice of Cincinnati in-patient unit. able2005.”cinnati to handle Nature multiple Center volunteertasks simultaneously for 30 years. make My wife,me a Henrietta,great candidate and I forbecame the BTA life- timeBoard BTA of Trustees. members I inhave a PO Box 5, Shawnee, OH 43782 2005.”Franchot Ballinger, Cincinnati, OH 740-777-6BTA (6282) I have been a Cin-cinnati Nature Center volunteer for 30 years. My proven track record for creating and implementing new ideas and I take pride in the finished product. I appreci- ate“I theretired nomination from the and University look forward of Cincinnati to serving at theon thebeginning board.” of 2004 after a 37 year career teaching English. Buckeye TrailFest wife, Henrietta, and I became life-time BTA members in 2005.” Since 2005 I have been a spiritual care volunteer at a Hospice of Cincinnati in-patient unit. I have been a Cin- John Knouse cinnati Nature Center volunteer for 30 years. My wife, Henrietta, and I became life-time BTA members in Awards & Recognition Dan Crandall, Cleveland, OH Liz2005.” DeBraal, Holland, OH Mary Hamilton Dan“I just Crandall, moved to Cleveland, the Toledo OHarea to work for Owens-Illinois. I've worked in the glass industry for 11 years. I've Dan is currently the Manager of Visi- Dan Crandall, Cleveland, OH BTA Century Barn Danbeen isa currentlymember of the the Cleveland BTA for Metroparkstwo years and Manager participated of Visitor in several Services. Buckeye Last year,Trail DanCrew created work partiesa new each Dan is currently the Cleveland Metroparks Manager of Visitor Services. Last year, Dan created a new Mary Hamilton tor Services. Last year, Dan created a new Metroparks Kids Club Metroparksyear. I went Kids on my Club first encouraging three-day backpacking kids to make trip a connection on the BT withlast summer. nature through I first gotactivities, involved exploration in trail building and Metroparks Kids Club encouraging kids to make a connection with nature through activities, exploration and Budget, Finance & Long Range Planning encouraging kids to make a connection with nature through activi- specialin 2009 events. with the Dan Ice isAge also Trail an accomplished Alliance (IATA) runner, in Wisconsin. and has participated I served as in Chapter 5ks, half Coordinator-marathons, for triathlons my local and special events. Dan is also an accomplished runner, and has participated in 5ks, half-marathons, triathlons and Connie Pond ties, exploration and special events. Dan is also an accomplished theIATA Cleveland chapter Marathon.in 2010. I “Ienjoy believe the camaraderiemy background and andsense work of purpose experience in the with BTA, Cleveland and work Metroparks parties are and lots being of Danthe Cleveland Crandall, Marathon. Cleveland, “I OHbelieve my background and work experience with Cleveland Metroparks and being Bylaws runner, and has participated in 5ks, half-marathons, triathlons and ablefun! toI wouldhandle like multiple to play tasks a larger simultaneously role in the growthmake me and a greatdevelopment candidate of forthe theorganization BTA Board to ofbuild Trustees. and promote I have a Danable isto currentlyhandle multiple the Cleveland tasks simultaneously Metroparks Manager make me of a Visitor great candidate Services. forLast the year, BTA Dan Board created of Trustees. a new I have a Mary Hayes proventhe Buckeye track Trail.”record for creating and implementing new ideas and I take pride in the finished product. I appreci- the Cleveland Marathon. “I believe my background and work expe- proven track record for creating and implementing new ideas and I take pride in the finished product. I appreci- ateMetroparks the nomination Kids Club and encouraginglook forward kids to serving to make on a theconnection board.” with nature through activities, exploration and Cartography rience with Cleveland Metroparks and being able to handle mul- specialate the nominationevents. Dan and is also look an forward accomplished to serving runner, on the and board.” has participated in 5ks, half-marathons, triathlons and Herb and Susie Hulls tiple tasks simultaneously make me a great candidate for the BTA the Cleveland Marathon. “I believe my background and work experience with Cleveland Metroparks and being Computer Service Coordinator Patrick Hayes, Medina, OH Board of Trustees. I have a proven track record for creating and Lizable DeBraal, to handle Holland,multiple tasksOH simultaneously make me a great candidate for the BTA Board of Trustees. I have a Steve Miller LizPatrick DeBraal, is a current Holland, BTA OH Trustee seeking re-election to the Board. Patrick, a BTA member for 15 years, served as implementing new ideas and I take pride in the finished product. I “Iprovena Trustee just moved track for recordthe to thepast forToledo 7, creating and area has andtoserved work implementing as for Board Owens President new-Illinois. ideas for I've and 3 years.worked I take Patrickpride in the in isglass the currently finished industry the product. for interim 11 years. I Chairappreci- I've of Mail Secretary been“Iate just the a movedmembernomination to of the the and Toledo BTA look forareaforward two to workyears to serving forand Owens participated on the-Illinois. board.” in severalI've worked Buckeye in the Trail glass Crew industry work for parties 11 years. each I've Dorothy Anson appreciate the nomination and look forward to serving on the board.” beenthe BTA a member Trail Management of the BTA forTeam. two Asyears an andactive participated trail work involunteer several BuckeyePatrick has Trail logged Crew over work 1,000 parties hours each with the year.Buckeye I went Trail on Crew my first and threeis a Trail-day Adopterbackpacking in the trip Troy on Section.the BT last “I amsummer. running I firstfor a got third involved term as in Trustee trail building to con- Membership year. I went on my first three-day backpacking trip on the BT last summer. I first got involved in trail building intinue 2009 helping with thethe IceBTA Age attain Trail the Alliance goals of (IATA) its mission in Wisconsin. of building, I served maintaining, as Chapter protecting, Coordinator and promoting for my local Ohio's Vacant inLiz 2009 DeBraal, with the Holland, Ice Age OH Trail Alliance (IATA) in Wisconsin. I served as Chapter Coordinator for my local Liz DeBraal, Holland, OH IATAlongest chapter scenic inhiking 2010. trail. I enjoy Having the hikedcamaraderie all of the and BT, sense volunteered of purpose many in the hours BTA, to andbuild work trail, parties maintained are lots trail of all Nominations fun!IATA“I just I chaptermovedwould like toin the2010. to Toledoplay I enjoya larger area the to role camaraderiework in thefor growthOwens and -andsenseIllinois. development of I'vepurpose worked inof thethe in BTA,theorganization glass and industry work to partiesbuild for 11and are years. promote lots ofI've Jeff Yoest “I just moved to the Toledo area to work for Owens-Illinois. I've fun!beenover theaI wouldmember state, like and of to therepresented play BTA a largerfor thetwo role BTA years in atthe and many growth participated events and thatdevelopment in focus several on Buckeye outdoorof the organization activities,Trail Crew I worktobelieve build parties thatand I promoteeach am quali- thefied Buckeye to continue Trail.” serving as a Trustee to help the BTA attain its goals.” Property Search worked in the glass industry for 11 years. I've been a member of theyear. Buckeye I went Trail.”on my first three-day backpacking trip on the BT last summer. I first got involved in trail building Jim Runk the BTA for two years and participated in several Buckeye Trail inByron 2009 Henry, with the Newark, Ice Age OHTrail Alliance (IATA) in Wisconsin. I served as Chapter Coordinator for my local Sales Manager, Maps Crew work parties each year. I went on my first three-day back- IATAPatrickByron chapteris Hayes, a current in Medina, 2010. BTA ITrustee enjoyOH the seeking camaraderie re-election and tosense the Board.of purpose “I am in athe Maintenance BTA, and work Supervisor parties at are Tectum lots of Inc. Patrick Hayes, Medina, OH Steve Miller packing trip on the BT last summer. I first got involved in trail fun!PatrickFor over I would is six a current years like toI BTA haveplay Trusteebeena larger a member seekingrole in theofre - theelectiongrowth BTA. andto This the development isBoard. my fifth Patrick, ofyear the aof organizationBTA maintaining member to a for trailbuild 15 in years,and the promote New served as Patrick is a current BTA Trustee seeking re-election to the Board. Patrick, a BTA member for 15 years, served as Sales Manager, Store building in 2009 with the Ice Age Trail Alliance (IATA) in Wiscon- theaStraitsville Trustee Buckeye for Section. Trail.”the past I have7, and worked has served over as350 Board hours President on various for Buckeye 3 years. TrailPatrick Crew is currently work parties the interim throughout Chair the of a Trustee for the past 7, and has served as Board President for 3 years. Patrick is currently the interim Chair of Jay Holwick thestate. BTA I feel Trail my Management leadership qualities Team. Assuch an as active supervision, trail work coordination, volunteer Patrick planning, has andlogged attention over 1,000to detail hours more with than the sin. I served as Chapter Coordinator for my local IATA chapter in the BTA Trail Management Team. As an active trail work volunteer Patrick has logged over 1,000 hours with the Scholarship Buckeyequalify me Trail for Crewthis position. and is a In Trail the Adopterfuture I wouldin the Troylike to Section. see the “IBuckeye am running Trail forbecome a third more term off as roadTrustee with to camp- con- 2010. I enjoy the camaraderie and sense of purpose in the BTA, PatrickBuckeye Hayes, Trail Crew Medina, and is OH a Trail Adopter in the Troy Section. “I am running for a third term as Trustee to con- Elmo Layman tinuesites. helpingI would thelike BTA the BT attain to become the goals one of ofits the mission premiere of building, trails in themaintaining, world. I am protecting, a people andfriendly promoting person Ohio's who and work parties are lots of fun! I would like to play a larger role in the growth and Patricktinue helping is a current the BTA BTA attain Trustee the goalsseeking of reits- electionmission toof thebuilding, Board. maintaining, Patrick, a BTA protecting, member and for promoting15 years, served Ohio's as Scouting Liaison longestworks hard scenic and hiking enjoys trail. working Having and hiked hiking all on of thethe BT.BT, Ifvolunteered I am re-elected many to hours the board to build of trusteestrail, maintained I will do mytrail best all development of the organization to build and promote the Buckeye Trail.” alongest Trustee scenic for the hiking past 7,trail. and Having has served hiked as all Board of the President BT, volunteered for 3 years. many Patrick hours is to currently build trail, the maintained interim Chair trail of all VACANT overto keep the the state, BT and on trackrepresented to becoming the BTA one at of many the finest events trails that infocus the world.”on outdoor activities, I believe that I am quali- fiedtheover BTA tothe continue state,Trail andManagement serving represented as a Team.Trustee the BTA As to anhelp at active many the BTA trailevents workattain that volunteer itsfocus goals.” on Patrickoutdoor has activities, logged overI believe 1,000 that hours I am with quali- the Trail Maintenance Supervisor Buckeyefied to continue Trail Crew serving and as is aa TrusteeTrail Adopter to help in the the BTA Troy attain Section. its goals.” “I am running for a third term as Trustee to con- Jim Sprague Scott A. Kamph, Oberlin, OH Scott A. Kamph, Oberlin, OH ScottByrontinue helpingis Henry, a recently the Newark, BTA retired attain OHAir theTraffic goals Controller, of its mission has aof B.A. building, in Business maintaining, Administration, protecting, and and has promoting served as Ohio's a Vol- Trail Management Team Byron Henry, Newark, OH Scott is a recently retired Air Traffic Controller, has a B.A. in Busi- unteerByronlongest isFireman scenic a current hiking and BTA EMT, trail. Trustee andHaving a seekingprivate hiked pilot. reall-election of Scott the BT, hasto the volunteeredbeen Board. active “I manywitham a the Maintenancehours Boy to Scouts build Supervisor trail,of America maintained at sinceTectum trail 1998, Inc. all Pat Hayes, Interim Chair Byron is a current BTA Trustee seeking re-election to the Board. “I am a Maintenance Supervisor at Tectum Inc. ness Administration, and has served as a Vol-unteer Fireman and currentlyForover over the state, sixserving years and as Irepresented havea Committee been athe member Member BTA at of manyand the TroopBTA. events Treasurer.This that is focus my “fifth onI enjoy outdooryear being of maintainingactivities, outdoors, I believe acamping, trail in that the hiking, I Newam quali- boat- Trail Preservation For over six years I have been a member of the BTA. This is my fifth year of maintaining a trail in the New ingStraitsvillefied and to continue fishing. Section. servingI have I have hikedas aworked Trustee or biked over to 50+ help 350 miles thehours BTA of on the attainvarious BT overits Buckeye goals.” the years. Trail Now Crew that work I am parties retired, throughout I will be able the to John Knouse EMT, and a private pilot. Scott has been active with the Boy Scouts Straitsville Section. I have worked over 350 hours on various Buckeye Trail Crew work parties throughout the devotestate. I feelmore my time leadership to the BTA. qualities I worked such onas threesupervision, Buckeye coordination, Trail Crew workplanning, parties and in attention 2012 and to really detail enjoyed more than Trail Preservation Fund of America since 1998, currently serving as a Committee Member state.Byron I feelHenry, my Newark,leadership OH qualities such as supervision, coordination, planning, and attention to detail more than buildingqualify me and for maintaining this position. trail In and the lookfuture forward I would to like more to eventssee the thisBuckeye year. ByTrail being become on the more BTA off Board, road with it would camp- Bill Schultz and Troop Treasurer. “ I enjoy being outdoors, camping, hiking, qualifyByron is me a currentfor this BTAposition. Trustee In the seeking future re I -wouldelection like to tothe see Board. the Buckeye “I am a TrailMaintenance become Supervisormore off road at Tectum with camp- Inc. providesites. I would a larger like perspective the BT to onbecome the Association's one of the premiere discussions trails and in thedecisions.“ world. I am a people friendly person who Trail Promotion boat-ing and fishing. I have hiked or biked 50+ miles of the BT workssites.For over I hardwould six and years like enjoys theI have BT working beento become a andmember hikingone of onthe the premiereBTA. BT. This If trailsI amis my rein- electedfifththe world. year to ofthe I ammaintaining board a people of trustees friendlya trail Iin will personthe do New my who best Vacant over the years. Now that I am retired, I will be able to devote more toworksStraitsville keep hard the Section.BTand onenjoys track I have working to becomingworked and over hiking one 350 of on thehours the finest BT.on varioustrails If I am in Buckeyerethe-elected world.” Trail to the Crew board work of trusteesparties throughoutI will do my the best Volunteer Placement time to the BTA. I worked on three Buckeye Trail Crew work par- tostate. keep I feelthe BTmy onleadership track to qualitiesbecoming such one as of supervision, the finest trails coordination, in the world.” planning, and attention to detail more than Garry Dill ties in 2012 and really enjoyed building and maintaining trail and look forward to more Scottqualify A. me Kamph, for this Oberlin, position. OHIn the future I would like to see the Buckeye Trail become more off road with camp- Scottsites. IA. would Kamph, like Oberlin,the BT to OHbecome one of the premiere trails in the world. I am a people friendly person who Webmaster events this year. By being on the BTA Board, it would provide a larger perspective on the Scott is a recently retired Air Traffic Controller, has a B.A. in Business Administration, and has served as a Vol- Mary Hayes unteerScottworks is hardFireman a recently and andenjoys retired EMT, working Air and Traffic a andprivate hiking Controller, pilot. on Scottthe has BT. has a B.A.If been I am in active reBusiness-elected with Administration, tothe the Boy board Scouts of trusteesandof America has Iserved will since do as my 1998,a Vol- best Association's discussions and decisions.“ currentlyunteerto keep Fireman the serving BT onand as track EMT,a Committee to andbecoming a private Member one pilot. of and the Scott Troop finest has Treasurer.trails been in active the “ world.”I withenjoy the being Boy outdoors, Scouts of camping, America hiking,since 1998, boat- ingcurrently and fishing. serving I as have a Committee hiked or biked Member 50+ andmiles Troop of the Treasurer. BT over the“ I enjoyyears. beingNow thatoutdoors, I am retired,camping, I will hiking, be able boat- to www.buckeyetrail.org BTA Trailblazer Summer 2013 devoteingScott3 and A. more fishing. Kamph, time I tohaveOberlin, the hiked BTA. OH or I workedbiked 50+ on milesthree Buckeyeof the BT Trail over Crew the years. work Now parties that in I 2012 am retired, and really I will enjoyed be able to buildingdevoteScott is more a and recently timemaintaining toretired the BTA. Airtrail Traffic andI worked look Controller, forwardon three to hasBuckeye more a B.A. events Trail in Business thisCrew year. work Administration, By parties being inon 2012 the and BTA and has reallyBoard, served enjoyed itas would a Vol- providebuildingunteer Fireman a and larger maintaining and perspective EMT, trail and on anda the private lookAssociation's forwardpilot. Scott to discussions more has been events activeand this decisions.“ withyear. the By Boybeing Scouts on the of BTA America Board, since it would 1998, providecurrently a servinglarger perspective as a Committee on the Member Association's and Troop discussions Treasurer. and “decisions.“ I enjoy being outdoors, camping, hiking, boat- ing and fishing. I have hiked or biked 50+ miles of the BT over the years. Now that I am retired, I will be able to devote more time to the BTA. I worked on three Buckeye Trail Crew work parties in 2012 and really enjoyed building and maintaining trail and look forward to more events this year. By being on the BTA Board, it would provide a larger perspective on the Association's discussions and decisions.“ Schedule of Hikes & Events

Always check www.buckeyetrail.org/events.html for last-minute updates

JUNE Camping: TBD JULY Meals: Bring your own food and water. June 1 NATIONAL TRAILS DAY, Contact: Trail Management Team, ­Buckeye Trail at Lockington Dam and [email protected] July 13–14 BTA Work Party, West Miami-Erie Canal. St. Marys Section. Branch State Park, Mogadore Section. Starts: 10:00 AM. A brief presentation by June 22–23 BTA Work Party, West Description: Building trail; may put in a cul- Neal Brady, Executive Director of Miami-Erie Branch State Park, Mogadore Section. vert, a boardwalk and bridge. Canal Corridor Association (MECCA) and Description: Build trail, may put in a culvert, Camping: Horse others at the site of Lock 1 South (St. Marys boardwalk and bridge. Camp Area on the north side of the lake. section point 1). After presentation, hike the Camping: West Branch State Park Horse Directions: From Rock Spring Rd. turn east BT and scale the 69-foot face of Lockington Camp Area, the north side of the lake. onto Copeland Rd. In 0.5 miles turn left (N) Dam. Hike continues on BT to the Miami-Erie Directions: From Rock Spring Rd. turn onto unnamed road leading to horse camps in Canal towpath. Along the towpath, you will east onto Copeland Rd. In 0.5 miles turn left 2.25 miles. Campground GPS coordinates: Lat see remaining abutments of a former railroad (N) onto unnamed road leading to horse 41° 8.999'N Lon 81° 6.751'W. Showers will be overpass; cross a bridge built by BTA; a canal camps in 2.25 miles. Campground GPS coor- available at the main campgrounds for anyone culvert, definitely worth exploring; an origi- dinates: Lat 41° 8.999'N Lon 81° 6.751'W. helping us. THE GATE to the Horse Camp nal canal stone mile-marker, and continue to Showers will be available at the main camp- area will NOT be open until 6:00PM on Fri- Stangel Road before returning to Lockington grounds for anyone helping us. THE GATE to day. Please time your arrival. Reserve Park. the Horse Camp area will NOT be open until Meals: Bring your own food and water. Total hiking distance: Approximately 6 6:00 PM on Friday. Please time your arrival. Directions: 2013 Buckeye Trail Crew Work miles. Meals: Bring your own food and water. Parties, Google Maps Camping: Arrive early Friday evening; Directions: 2013 Buckeye Trail Crew Work Contact: Steve Latza, green.boonie@ Primitive camping is available at Lockington Parties, Google Maps gmail.com Reserve Park (pit toilets, picnic shelter, etc.). Contact: Steve Latza, green.boonie@ Meals: Bring your own food and water. gmail.com July 13–14 BTA Work Party, Pretty Run, Old Mans Cave Section. Description: Directions: St. Marys section point 2 for June 22–23 Emma “Grandma” parking. (camping, if needed). St. Marys point We will be performing general trail mainte- ­Gatewood Solstice (EGGS) Hike, nance on the BTA property at Pretty Run in 1 for start of hike. New Straitsville Section. Hike all day in Burr Contact: Preston Bartlett at stmarys@ Vinton County. Boots and work gloves are Oak State Park. recommended. Saturday, work will start at 8:00 buckeyetrail.org, Neal Brady, meccadirector@ Contact: Byron Guy, oldmanscave@ nktelco.net AM and quit at 3:00 PM. Sunday, work will buckeyetrail.org start at 8:00 AM and quit at noon. June 1–2 BTA Work Party, Indepen- June 29–30 BTA Work Party, US-35 Camping: Camping will be on the Pretty dence Dam Shelter, Defiance Section. Trail Rebuild Work Party, Scioto Trail Sec- Run property. A portable shower will be Contact: Trail Management Team, tion. Description: Reestablish trail in logged- available.­ [email protected] out area between Scioto Trail points 12-13 Meals: Bring your own food and water. (March 2010 map) (between hikers’ culvert Contact: Trail Management Team, June 8 BTA Board Meeting at Command [email protected] Alkon. Starts 10:00 AM. Contact: Melissa under US-35 and Hang Glide Hill). Saturday, Reed, [email protected] we leave camp for the work site at 8:00 AM July 14-18 Gospel Road Work Camp, and quit work at 3:00 PM. Sunday, we leave Bowerston Section. Description: The Gospel June 15–19 BTA Work Party Week, camp for the work site at 8:00 AM and work Road of the Catholic Diocese hosts a work Edge of Appalachia, West Union Section. until noon. camp on the Buckeye Trail near the BTA Barn. Location: Edge of Appalachia in West Union Camping: Abandoned air strip in Scioto The plans are for at least 25 seniors and adults Section. Trail State Forest. A shower and port-a-john to be out at the barn to work. Clear trail to the Description: Work week to build new trail will be provided park is cleared. We will leave camp at 8:00 AM in the Edge of Appalachia in the West Union Meals: Bring your own food and water. for work sites. Tools will be supplied by the Section. This is the first phase of a long-term Contact: Trail Management Team, BTA. Another project: Clendening and per- project to build 10-15 miles of off road trail in [email protected] haps Piedmont. southern Ohio. Chuckwagon BTA Barn Directions Reservations Take I-77 south to US-250 east (just south of New Philadelphia). Follow US-250 past ­Tappan Dam almost to the end of the lake. There is a causeway with a sign For meal reservations for the that reads “­Tappan Lake Park”. Turn right (this road also takes you to Deersville). ­chuckwagon at work parties Approximately 3.1 miles from the US-250 turnoff is Beall Rd. on the right. Follow (where available), contact Chuck this dead-end road 1.3 mi. It ends at the BTA Barn down a long gravel driveway. Wagon Master, Jay Holwick at: Remember the house side of the driveway is absolutely and strictly off-limits. [email protected] It is a private residence so please respect their wishes and stay on our side of the 740-743-3813 driveway and please do not block any roads.

4 BTA Trailblazer Summer 2013 www.buckeyetrail.org Camping: Near Tappan Lake at the BTA Directions: From Rock Spring Rd. turn east for transport to and from starting and stop- Century Barn. Sleep with the bats in the Barn onto Copeland Rd. In 0.5 miles turn left (N) ping points. The Towpath extends north from or bring a tent or small camper. onto unnamed road leading to horse camps in St. Marys, Memorial Park to 40-acre pond and Contact Mary Hamilton, hamilton3310@ 2.25 miles. Campground GPS coordinates: Lat on to Lock 14. roadrunner.com, for FREE meal reservation 41° 8.999'N Lon 81° 6.751'W Note: Last year this hiking event had over provided by the BTA Barn Kitchen. Contact: Jay Holwick, holwick@columbus. 1,300 participants. Contact: Trail Management Team, rr.com for FREE meal reservation for first 20 Note: Inquire about being transported out [email protected] volunteers. to one of the ending points of the hike and Contact: Trail Management Team, hike back into town. By doing so, you will not July 20 BTA Picnic, BTA Barn, [email protected] have to wait for transportation back from the ­Bowerston Section. Contact: Mary Hamilton, end of the hike. [email protected] September 28–29 BTA Work Party, Directions: Downtown St. Marys. Next to Serpent Mound, Sinking Spring Contact: Preston Bartlett, stmarys@ AUGUST Section. Description: Construct a backpack- buckeyetrail.org, or St. Marys Area Chamber ing shelter on property adjacent to Serpent August 23–25 BTA Board Retreat, BTA of Commerce, [email protected], Mound State Memorial. Saturday: Work will 419-394-4611. Barn, Bowerston Section. Contact: Melissa start at 8:00 AM and quit at 3:00 PM. Sunday: Reed, [email protected] Work will start at 8:00 AM and quit at noon. October 26–30 BTA Work Party August 24–25 BTA Work Party, West Branch Camping: Camping will be at the work Week, Cuyahoga Valley State Park, Akron State Park, Mogadore Section. Description: site. Section. Description: We will be working in We will mainly be building new trail; perhaps Meals: Bring your own food and water the Cuyahoga Valley National Park to improve install culvert, boardwalk, bridge. Contact: Trail Management Team, trail in wet areas by building puncheon board- Camping: West Branch State Park Horse [email protected] walk and a bridge. Work will start at 8:30 AM Camp Area on the north side of the lake. and quit at 3:30 PM. Directions: From Rock Spring Rd. turn east OCTOBER Camping: TBD onto Copeland Rd. In 0.5 miles turn left (N) Meals: Bring your own food and water October 12–13 BTA Work Party, Burr onto unnamed road leading to horse camps in Contact: Trail Management Team, Oak State Park, New Straitsville Section. 2.25 miles. Campground GPS coordinates: Lat [email protected] *BTA Chuck Wagon Event* 41° 8.999'N Lon 81° 6.751'W. Showers will be Description: Improve existing BT available at the main campgrounds for anyone NOVEMBER throughout the New Straitsville Section. We helping us. THE GATE to the Horse Camp will leave camp for work site at 8:30 AM. November 9–10 BTA Work Party, area will NOT be open until 6:00 PM on Fri- Camping: Group State Park, Old Mans Cave Sec- day. Please time your arrival. Campground near Boat Dock 3. From OH-78 tion. Description: We will be working in Hock- Meals: Bring your own food and water. on the east side of Burr Oak Lake, take C-14 ing Hills State Park to reroute the BT near the Directions: 2013 Buckeye Trail Crew Work (Mountville Rd.) west toward the lake and the SR-664 the entrance to the park. (OMC point Parties, Google Maps group campground. 19, November 2010 map). Saturday: Start work Contact: Steve Latza, green.boonie@ Contact: Jay Holwick, holwick@ 8:30 AM and quit at 3:30 PM. Sunday: Start gmail.com. columbus.rr.com, for FREE meal reservation. work at 8:30 AM and quit at 12:30 PM on August 31–September-2 Contact: Trail Management Team, Camping: TBD BTA Work Party, Pretty Run/Tar Hollow, [email protected] Meals: Bring your own food and water. Old Mans Cave Section. Description: We Contact: Trail Management Team, October 20 44th Annual Walk With will be constructing a backpacking shelter on [email protected] Nature, Memorial Park, St. Marys, Ohio. the Pretty Run property in Vinton County as Along the Miami-Erie Canal Towpath Trail well as constructing a BT foot bridge near the DECEMBER (BT/NCT). Registration for the “Walk with maintenance building on Tar Hollow State Nature” and “Road to Fitness” will be in Forest property. Saturday-Sunday we will start December 14 BTA Board Meeting. Memorial Park in downtown St. Marys. work at 8:00 AM and quit at 3:00 PM. Mon- Location: Command Alkon in Columbus, Description: Noon-5:00 PM, the “Walk day: start work at 8:00 AM and quit at noon. 10:00 AM. Contact; Melissa Reed, with Nature” is a pleasant, level walk along the Camping: Pretty Run property, portable [email protected] Miami-Erie Canal Towpath and can begin or shower will be available. end at several points. The length of the walk Meals: Bring your own food and water. can be 3.3 miles-10 miles. Buses are available Contact: Trail Management Team, [email protected] SEPTEMBER Moved or Moving? September 14–18 BTA Work Party Week, West Branch State Park, Mogadore Send the BTA Your Change of Address!! Section. *BTA Chuck Wagon Event* Descrip- The Trailblazer will NOT be forwarded to your new address tion: Build new and maintaining existing Buckeye Trail in West Branch State Park. We AND the BTA incurs 70¢ charge for each ­undeliverable Trailblazer. will leave camp at 8:00 AM for work site. Mailing labels are generated 3 weeks before the ­Trailblazers are mailed, Camping: West Branch State Park Horse so send in your change of address right away! Camp Area on the north side of the lake. Email your change of address to: [email protected]

www.buckeyetrail.org BTA Trailblazer Summer 2013 5 Little Loop Tales Stories from those who have completed the Little Loop Debbie Zampini

Steve Hughes: Completed 9/23/2012 Randal Roberts: Completed 8/25/2012 Took 41 hikes, 3 years, 9 months, 18 days, average speed to be 39.7 feet per hour. Just go to show you, don’t worry about how long it might take, just get out and do it. Carol Messenger, Al Messenger, Paul Lenz (AT hiker from PA): Completed 6/20/2010 Matthew Dexter Edmonds: Completed in 2011 BTA Little Thoughts from Matthew: “If we’re going uphill, we must be on the Buckeye Trail.” Best Hiker Town: Deersville. Loop Patches Best Hike: “Last hike I was on”. Congratulations! Next patch, the rest of the trail! Available Have you hiked BTA’s Little Loop but did not get a patch? Is the Little Loop in your future plans? Here is incentive Have You Hiked the to get it done! Contact Debbie Zampini, half-marathoner@hotmail Whole Buckeye Trail? .com with date of completion and maybe a photo to receive your patch What is it? A patch for any hiker who has completed the entire ­Buckeye Trail. at no charge. Please put “Little Loop Patch” in the subject line. How do I get a patch? By ­hiking the Buckeye Trail, of course. After finish- Happy hiking! ing the ­Buckeye Trail, contact me at the address below and I’ll send you a ques- tionnaire or download a form at http:// www.buckeyetrail.org/circuithike.html. Fill it out and a patch will be sent to you in 10 business days. Can I get more than one patch? The first patch is free; any extra patches are $3.00 each. Who is eligible for a patch? Any person who has completed the Buck- eye Trail any time in the Buckeye Trail’s history. As long as you finished the entire Buckeye Trail, no matter what its length was when you finished.

We want to know. Just fill out the questionnaire. BTA is interested in people who have hiked the whole Trail.

Dana Zintek, [email protected], 330-928-8931

6 BTA Trailblazer Summer 2013 www.buckeyetrail.org Bits & Pieces

The Trailblazer Needs Your Help! Please join the Trailblazer staff. Edit or layout 4 issues per year. You’ll get the first look at what’s happening on Ohio’s Buckeye Trail! Please contact [email protected] or [email protected] for more information.

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4th Annual August 12-17 2013 Slippery Rock University

BTA Annual Picnic Buckeye Trail Barn June 22-23 July 20 Emma "Grandma" www.buckeyetrail.orgGatewood Solstice BTA Trailblazer Summer 2013 7 (EGGS) Hike T R T A S ILF E

­Buckeye TrailFest 2013 Deb Zampini, Chairperson 2013 BTF

What do you say when a great event comes to an end? Yahoo, let’s get ready for 2014! Buckeye TrailFest 2013 was a great success! I want to thank all who gave of their time to make this event happen, the VOL- UNTEERS: at the site, behind the scenes, all the instructors and program leaders, the speakers, camp staff and all the Lake Metroparks staff and volunteers. A special thank you to the Lake Erie Live Steamers for sharing their passion with us. It was a pleasure to chair this event, sad to have it end, but rather than ramble on, pictures speak louder than words. Thank you all!

Deb Zampini, Dina Rossi, and many more whose names we do not have.

8 BTA Trailblazer Summer 2013 www.buckeyetrail.org Deb Zampini, Dina Rossi, and many more whose names we do not have.

www.buckeyetrail.org BTA Trailblazer Summer 2013 9 ET INV • G OLV TY ED IR D • T G E KE E Get Ready for G C Y T

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T D G R 2014! A S IL E Buckeye TrailFest 2014 will be at Camp Akita on the fringes of the Hocking F Hills in northwest Hocking County. This is an exceptional camp facility with great accommodations convenient to many local trail venues. 2013 We will feature a great variety of outings in the Old Man’s Cave, GET HIKING New Straitsville and Shawneee sections of the Buckeye Trail. You’ll have Join us for led and self led the opportunity to explore Burr Oak and Strouds Run and State Parks, hikes on the Buckeye Trail Hocking Hills, Pretty Run Preserve, , Crane Hollow and other trails. Nature Preserve, and into the Shawnee area and . All skill levels–easy, We're also hoping to be able to feature a rappelling session in the rock moderate, difficult. climbing area (with comprehensive belays!!). We expect to have a special session for bird-watchers as well. Look for the opportunity to have a wide-ranging introduction to all phases of trail planning, construction and maintenance, as well as a wide variety of camping and hiking workshops. We plan to have an in-depth GET DIRTY workshop on wilderness first aid, too. Join a trail crew Overnight arrangements will accommodate everyone, no matter what and help build a your desires, from a beautifully furnished indoor room, to a cabin, to RV section of trail. camping, to primitive camping including both early bird and night owl Learn from the best. areas. Check out the on-line Athens Outdoor Guide for much of what is available in the area, at: http://www.athenstrails.org/Outdoorguide/ aaorgindex.html GET INVOLVED WE NEED VOLUNTEERS! Attend the Buckeye Trail Association business We need outing leaders, publicists, workshop presenters, campground meeting. hosts, photographers, signage, coordinating the silent and not-so-silent Learn how you can help. auctions, and for a great many other tasks. Suggestions are very welcome for keynote speakers, so send them in. Contact: John Knouse, Buckeye TrailFest 2014 Chair, 502.608.2394, [email protected]

GET CONNECTED Meet hikers and trail maintainers from around the state. Never hike alone again!

10 BTA Trailblazer Summer 2013 www.buckeyetrail.org Welcome The Great Oak New Members! Paul E. Knoop, Jr. Bev and Jerry Starcher

For many years I had admired the great white oak that grew on a hillside above Nora Rubinoff and Family, Cincinnati a small stream. The tree was nearly four feet in diameter, beautiful and rug- Lisa Ruschman, Mentor ged. Many decades prior, lightning had struck it and split the trunk lengthwise Patricia Rusinek and Family, Chardon allowing organisms to enter and decompose the interior until it became com- Miki Saito, Medina pletely hollow. The hollow oak tree was especially impressive as one could climb Neil Sater, Oberlin inside and stand upright. It was cool in the tree and semi-dark and a musty, woodsy odor permeated the air. It was a good feeling to be inside the great oak. Laura Scaggs, Brunswick Just recently, the tree’s hollow trunk could no longer support the massive weight Danielle Schwan, Painesville TWP of its upper branches and it came crashing down. The great oak lived 250 years, Akil Sharif, Dayton weathering hot summers, cold winters, insect attack, fire and storm. A brief Richard Sipes, Pickerington chronology of events in natural history transpiring during the great oak’s life- Zach Smith and Family, Akron, time follows: gift from Noreen Baldwin Joyce Taylor, Kent ◾ 1743 – The oak emerges from an acorn in a forest wilderness Jeff Thien and Family, Cincinnati ◾ 1749 – Pennsylvania pays bounty on 640,000 gray squirrels ◾ 1750 – 95% of Ohio is still forest covered David Tietz, Mentor ◾ 1761 – In Ohio, Major John Rogers writes in his journal, ”We traveled 11 Nick Valentine, Wadsworth miles and encamped, having killed in our march this day 3 bears and 2 elks.” Nancy Vallen, Ashtabula ◾ 1790 – The first U.S. census records a population of 3,929,214 Ronald E. Vore Jr., Glouster ◾ 1803 – The last wild bison in Ohio is shot in Lawrence County Stephen Walker, Niles ◾ 1807 – Cedar waxwings sell for 25 cents a dozen in ­Philadelphia meat Robert J. Walter, Hillsboro markets ◾ 1838 – The last mountain lion is reported seen in Ohio Lynda Warner, Mayfield Heights ◾ 1850 – 90% of Ohio is still forest covered Katina Watt and Family, Jewett ◾ 1854 – The sky is obscured by an immense flock of passenger pigeons over Angela White and Family, Hillsboro Columbus, Ohio Robert Wieser, Berea ◾ 1860 – The U.S. population is 31,443,321 Barbara Williamson, Fairlawn ◾ 1873 – A Chicago company buys 600,000 dead prairie chickens at $3.25 a John Williamson, Fairlawn dozen John Wiltshire, Arcanum ◾ 1900 – 15% of Ohio is covered by forest. On March 24 the last passenger pigeon seen in the wild is killed in Sargents, Ohio Daniel Woodard, Clayton ◾ 1914 – The last passenger pigeon on earth dies in the ­Cincinnati Zoo Wade Young, Akron ◾ 1930 – The U. S. population is 122,775,046 ◾ 1962 – Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring is published, inaugurating­ a new era of environmental concern ◾ 1973 – The U.S. Endangered Species Act becomes law ◾ 1980 – The U.S. population is 226,504,825 ◾ 1990 – The U.S. Forest Service begins to cut the last 10% of old growth forest in the western United States ◾ 1998 – The Great Oak dies

www.buckeyetrail.org BTA Trailblazer Summer 2013 11 we reached the top. I still had no service, but John’s phone finally The Places We’ll displayed one bar. Even though we were completely focused on our mission, we couldn’t help but notice the darkening skies and gusts of warm moist air swirling dust around us. I’m pretty sure Go for a Friend this was not the weather John had ordered for the hike. C.W. Spencer John tried 911 and somehow got through. The connection was so weak he could hear only every second or third word. He We never know to what heights a friendship may take us … handed the phone to me while he looked for his maps. What I We were three days into our annual fall Buckeye Trail Associ- heard was not good: “. . . you … need … climb higher… hear … ation backpacking trip. Our fall hikes take us off the BT into new coordinates … storm … damage….” Then more crackling. territories. This year John was leading our little band of explorers As the smell of ozone blew in from the west, I gave John the on the through the Allegheny Mountains of phone and my translation of the conversation. He looked around northern Pennsylvania. and spotted a huge slag pile (we were near a forest service road). This far into the journey, we explorers were noticeably tiring. He climbed it, gaining maybe 15 more feet in altitude. That put The valleys and vistas were exquisite, but the terrain and tem- him high enough to hear almost every word. Though it was far perature were taking their toll (not that age could have anything from a good connection, it was adequate for them to hone in on to do with it). Two days before, we had numbered seven, but Bob our coordinates. That was the good news. The bad news was that had to get a ride out due to some kidney issues, and since Andy the ominous, zigzaggy lightning two ridges over was moving our came with him, they left together. Jim, an experienced hiker, was way. They asked John if he could go any higher to improve the still with us but limping from a severe strain in his calf. As we connection so they could get more details of our situation. I was marched in formation over the path, we anticipated reaching shocked to see him looking up into the trees surrounding us. I camp and resting our weary bones. Then Chris, our senior mem- was pretty sure that was not what they had in mind. ber, fell and broke a couple of his. I’m pretty sure this was not the Fortunately the top of the slag pile proved high enough. Help trip John had planned. came an hour or so later. Six vehicles wound their way up the Chris had been in the lead at the time. I was near enough to mountain on the snaking service road. Pros and volunteers gath- hear the sound of body striking boulder as Chris slipped cross- ered to discuss their descent to pluck Chris from the abyss. Even ing a small stream. He only had time to let out a quick “Whoop” while they drew up their plan, they eyed the skies warily, knowing before he found himself resting on his back in the water. I there was already storm destruction in the next county. As they reached him first and noticed his injured foot, the one turned to set up their rescue equipment, they continued to glance to the the left while the rest of his leg faced the sky. I immediately sus- west. The rain had arrived, and the wind was beginning to drive pected the culprits were his new shoes. Chris and I were always it horizontally through the makeshift headquarters. The team had looking for ways to travel lighter, and he had been experimenting never made a rescue during a severe weather watch. They were with some quick-drying, lightweight low-tops. They didn’t have concerned not only that the storm would score a direct hit on the tread his boots did, and they certainly had offered no support us, but also that Chris would become hypothermic from another against the fall. soaking. We needed to act quickly. Not knowing what to do first, we all tried our phones, fully aware that we hadn’t had cell service since Trail Rescue we began our hike three days before. Still with no service, we had Chris was rescued off a forested trail after a hiking injury to do something besides repeatedly peck 911, preferably some- and heroic efforts to alert authorities. thing more productive. Chris was the calmest of all. He quietly suggested that we get him out of the cold water and up onto the flat bank. Good thinking. Not wanting to create a big fuss with bringing in rescuers, he proposed that we rig a carrier out of our jackets and hiking poles. We had already had some falls on this trail just carrying ourselves, so that option didn’t sound like a feasible way to get to the road five miles down the trail. Good try anyway, Chris. After tossing around some other ideas, we came to the only viable alternative–climb the mountain to search for a cell signal. John and I started up the hill while Jim and Dave stayed back to try to make Chris comfortable. He was already soaked from the stream and he was starting to turn pale. We kept trying our phones as we climbed, but with no success. In one place the hill got so steep we practically had to crawl. I looked up; we were run- ning out of hill. Four-tenths of a mile after we began our ascent,

12 BTA Trailblazer Summer 2013 www.buckeyetrail.org I led part of the rescue team down to Chris. Although in a great deal of pain BTA Funds Report and looking paler than the peeling bark Your contribution to any BTA fund is tax-deductible. All contributions of of the surrounding sycamore trees, Chris $20 or more are acknowledged. We hope to include your name had managed to coach Jim and Dave on in the list of contributors in the Trailblazer. the art of splinting. I figured he would find some way to utilize those jackets and Trail Preservation Miner Dickason Robert Morrison Jr. hiking poles in his rescue. The team was Fund Susan Doolittle Lawrence Morton duly impressed by that feat as they loaded 02/01/2013-04/30/2013 John Fetzer Thomas Myers Chris into their sturdy carrier. Six guys Steven W. Mershon Antonio Fiscarelli Alexander Nalbach transported him up the mountain with Erich Drescher Gerald Forrider James Naso the assistance of a cable and winch on the Barron Farrier Robert Fritschie Travis Neely MD steepest part. The rescue was successful, Sharon E. Schnell Brian Frock Carolyn Niece and I thanked God that the brunt of the Janice Geho Gary Newman storm had bypassed us. Barn Fund Thomas Gilbert Denny O’Leary 01/01/2013-05/03/2013 Norman Gillmore Bernard Parry Three hours after his fall, Chris lay James Gilkey Donna Pendleton in a warm, dry bed in the hospital in a Donald Mong Mary Hamilton Dorothy Prtichard nearby town. John sat by him through Harvey Harris Melissa Reed Scholarship Fund the night as the doctors decided the best James Hawkins Ralph Regula 01/01/2013-05/03/2013 course of action. John celebrated his own R. Michael Henry Kenneth Rhoads birthday in the hospital (I didn’t find – Myrna Hixson Quincy Robe out about that until the next day), but Dale Holwick Jr. James Rowe he didn’t complain. The fact that Chris General Fund James Hoops Garry Rucker was high and dry was all the present he 01/01/2013-05/03/2013 Attila Horvath Richard Schmidt wanted. Ronald Aitken Herbert Hulls Lucas Schwabel Chris is rehabbing faithfully this Dorothy Anson Susanne Hunt Louis Shainker spring, trying to make friends with the Katherine Ball Dorothy Ipavec F. M. Silver Carri Jagger Charles Kent Smith extra nuts and bolts in his tibia and fibula. Andrea Bartel Robert Johnson Kent Spieth We old guys are rethinking our mountain Jeff Bartlett Kenneth Katona James Sprague hiking trips. Could be that maybe we Andrew Bashaw Donald Bashaw Johnson-Kazar Foundation Earl Staddon need a better communication system. Donald Beattie Thomas King Robert George Steeneck John and Chris have been forg- Ronald Beer Alan Knowles Arnie Stemen ing their friendship on and off the trail Jonathan Bell Joseph Krueger John Sturgis for years. I saw on that trip what a real K.J. Bender in memory Barbara Kurtz Jeffery Taylor friendship it is: stepping up when your of Dr. Daniel Robert Leon Jane Tidwell friend falls, being willing to take a hit, Mildred Bleier Bayard Liesch Richard Tresenrider standing by until the situation is well in Jeffrey Briner Robert Litt Trust for Public Land hand. It was quite a takeaway for me. I like Martha Brown M. Maddock Lee David Tucker to think that any of us would have done Flora Burkholder John Martin Charles Twigg III Karen Martin Mario Vargas the same. Robert Burris Andrea McGovern Rodney Vest Yes, friendships have their sunny days Donald Byrkett Don McHugh Trust Pete Weiner and smooth trails, but sometimes we end David Campfield Donald Chubb Kevin McKee Western Reserve Trail up being a lightning rod. I’m pretty sure– Matthew Collings Daniel McKenna Running no, actually I’m positive–John would have Chester Crone Robert Merkle Eugene Wilson climbed to the treetops for Chris’s rescue Christopher Courter Steven Mershon John Wilson if necessary. It wouldn’t surprise me at all Charles Daub A.R. Messenger Windy Hills Farm if John buys Chris a pair of high-tops for L. A. Deininger Martha Metz Daniel Woodard his next birthday. And maybe Chris will Jerry Deisher Bernard Miner Todd Woods get John a satellite phone. There’s no use Donald Desch Thomas Moran James Wright tempting lightning twice. Phyllis Devlin William Morley Deborah Zampini

www.buckeyetrail.org BTA Trailblazer Summer 2013 13 A Series of Remarkable Experiences and Other Hiking Life Lessons Barb Crompton (Blue Blaze Bugsie)

Another beautiful, crisp and windy day. Today’s trip left me not and cross-tipped screws for nostrils. More tree art that literally only with a sense of being “watched”, and a reminder that in a made me catch my breath. world where we’re led to believe that natural is controlled, I am Leaving BMR I hoofed it up Richmond Road to the next just a guest. Exiting Bedford Reservation from the Taylor Road bridle trail which I followed into South Chagrin Reservation, side the BT took me up over a railroad track then back onto a bri- final destination, Squaw Rock. For a lifelong Cleveland west-sider, dle trail that skirted houses and roads, keeping me just inside the names like Richmond and Solon Road or Chagrin could’ve been shelter of trees. Immediately I had this sense that something was as far away as the moon to me and I amused myself with the out there with me and upon close observation I discovered it was thought that I was getting to know the east side one step at a time. a herd of deer, which for most of the hike appeared to be follow- My lunch is only ever a backpack away, but not liking to stop dur- ing me…or maybe they thought the same thing about me? Almost ing my hikes, lest I sit down and not want to get back up again, I any time I looked there was a group foraging just out of range, wait until it becomes unbearable to finally reach for it, so of course silently watching and chewing, but once acknowledged would I end up thinking about it a lot. At one point I started craving flee off into the woods beyond my line of sight. Once under the apples, which I did not pack today. I actually tilted my head back, I-480/271 overpass I entered the Bedford Metro Reserve and the closed my eyes and begged for a juicy apple! Not too long after my lovely fall scenery full of dancing colors and the babbling of Tin- request an old, gnarly abandoned apple tree answered the call. It kers Creek captured my attention begging for me to take a photo. I would have been an interesting spectacle to watch as I struggled began taking photos of the creek as the sloping path led me down to release apples from the tall tree, but I duly offered up my to it. As I turned to take the shot up-creek out of the corner of thanks as the sweet juiciness of the pear-like apple hit my tongue my eye I saw a figure huddled on the side of a tree, frozen there and sprayed my face as I bit into it. Lesson #19: Always enjoy the watching me, but it was too far away to see clearly. Cautiously I “fruits” of nature while you’re out in it. There is nothing that com- approached taking photos until I finally could make it out. Three pares; a sun-kissed apple straight off the tree is always a whole lot feet up the tree was a huge knot that had been paint-enhanced to better than one picked from a drawer in the fridge.

reveal a baby-sized bear clinging to it, down to marbles for eyes Barb Crompton Barb

oods in BTA’s Bedford Section A Long View through the W

14 BTA Trailblazer Summer 2013 www.buckeyetrail.org Support the Buckeye­ Trail While Supporting I came out of the shadows of the woodsy bridle trail to see the bedazzled waters of the ironically-named Shadow Lake. The sun was shining brightly and in the cool breeze the rippling water a Library reflected it like sparkling jewels. It is here that I finally gave into Nan Allen, BTA Library Patron Coordinator the urge to reach for lunch and as I sat on the deck. I enjoyed the company of a mallard couple as they bobbed and fluttered about Would you like to donate a subscription of the Trailblazer to in the search of their own fare. your local library? Libraries are always looking to expand their I finally made it to Squaw Rock. It was only when I crept to the collections in economical ways. Becoming a Buckeye Trail edge of the cliff and peered down to see the huge sandstone boul- Library Patron is a great way to support libraries and to let others der made famous by its historic carvings that I realized I’d been know about the Buckeye Trail. here before and I wished my husband could have been there to How does it work? For a $10 donation the library of your see it with me. From my vantage point I couldn’t make out exactly what I was looking at, and being far too tired to go all the way choice will receive a year’s subscription to the Trailblazer maga- down to see it up close, I took a few photos from the ridge and zine. We will send the library a letter announcing your gift with then headed toward the car and my waiting hubby, whom I finally their first copy. It’s that easy. If you are unsure which library located beyond the parking lot further up-trail. branches would benefit from your gift, please let us know. We’ll On the drive home he mentioned that he’d tried to locate me gladly send you a list. to walk the last mile together. He said with a wry grin that he’d run The Trailblazer staff has recently made some changes. If you into this huge sandstone boulder by the river, but someone had have any questions about magazine donations, please feel free to carved it all up! contact us. Go to http://library.buckeytrail.org for further information and thank you for your support.

Discount on Blaze Paint

What Either Sweeping Blue 2408 or Yuma Green 2090 or brushes or scrapers

Where? Any Sherwin-Williams store in Ohio

How? Mention BTA Account No. 9321-7886-6. You pay, then turn in receipts to get reimbursed

Really? 10% Discount and you pay no tax

Bear Art in the W oods in Bedford Reservation Barb Crompton

www.buckeyetrail.org BTA Trailblazer Summer 2013 15 Highlights of Highlights of the BTA Board the BTA Annual BTeasers Meeting—­ Business­ Meeting— Pat Hayes March 9, 2013 April 28, 2013 When was the first Q Trailblazer issued, who Ruth Brown, BTA Secretary Ruth Brown, BTA Secretary created the first Trailblazer masthead Trail Management Team – Executive Director’s Report – and what was the Pat Hayes Andrew Bashaw significance of the ◾ A hiker leader is needed to take over ◾ BTA membership increased since the arranging the Martin Luther King 2012 Trailfest. images? Day winter hike at Hueston Woods ◾ Buckeye Trail is being developed in State Park. these areas: The first BTA newsletter ◾ Don Burrell will take over the posi- – Through Camp Tuscazoar, A designated as the Buckeye tion of being the American Discovery – Through AEP ReCreation Lands, Trailblazer was issued Trail Coordinator for Ohio and Ken- where 26 miles have been com- July, 1968 as Volume 1 tucky. Dan is the Bicycle/Pedestrian pleted after 20 years, Coordinator of OKI (Ohio, Ken- – In West Branch State Park No. 3. Numbers 1 and tucky, Indiana) Regional Council of –10-15 miles through the Edge of Appa- 2 were published as Governments. lachia Nature Preserve, eventually con- Buckeye Trail Association, necting with for Inc. ­Newsletters. The Shows and Exhibits – 30 miles of backpacking trail. Trailblazer masthead was Andrew Bashaw (in place of BTA Barn – Mary Hamilton ­created by Miss Patricia Betsy Bender) ◾ An important event for the BTA to ◾ Upstairs in the Barn are now five Johnston of Columbus. have a presence at is the River Summit dorm rooms with bunks, men’s and It combined the idea at the University of Dayton. women’s restrooms and showers. of pioneering with the ◾ BTA will have a display at the Medina Downstairs is a kitchen, bathroom, County Parks Earth Day event. warming room and office. compass, the Buckeye ◾ A trail connects the Barn with Tappan tree, and trailblazing Lake. and used the official BTA Scouting Report— ◾ The annual BTA Membership Picnic Bruce “Poppie” Purdy will be at the Barn on July 20. symbol effectively. This ◾ BTA scouting brochures designed by masthead was used for Darlene Karoly and Poppie that will Election Results each issue until its last be used at scout shows. ◾ Five people were elected to the BTA use for the October 1984 Board to serve three-year terms end- volume 17 no. 5 issue. GIS and Cartography Team ing in 2016: – Bryon Henry Report—Richard Lutz – Pat Hayes ◾ 22 BT section maps were now in – Dan Crandall digital­ format – Liz DeBraal – Franchot Ballinger. AmeriCorps Report – Richard Lutz Highlights of ◾ The Second Annual Burr Oak Winter Hike on February 2 with over 100 the BTA Board people had been a success ◾ The Fourth Annual EGGS Hike will Meeting—­ be at Burr Oak State Park on June 22-23 April 28, 2013 ◾ A group from the Neland Avenue Christian Church in Grand Rapids, Ruth Brown, BTA Secretary Michigan will be coming to Burr Oak State Park from June 10-14 to do trail ◾ Current officers had consented to work. continue serving another year: – President: Melissa Reed – Vice-President: Connie Pond – Secretary: Ruth Brown – Treasurer: Deb Zampini ◾ Scott Kamph was nominated to fill out the two year term of Betsy Bender, who had resigned from her position as a Board Trustee.

16 BTA Trailblazer Summer 2013 www.buckeyetrail.org Get outside and live your life!

We have a passion for getting people outdoors. With our expertise and your love of nature, we can connect you with an outdoor adventure you will never forget. Join one of our group trips Lake Metroparks to relax, picnic, bike, or let us customize a trip for you. Explore hike, kayak, golf or fish at one of 37 parks Let us take you there. located conveniently close to you in Lake County. Now and for future generations LAKEMETRoPARKS.CoM OutdoorAdventureConnection.com

Earth Share of Ohio is a great way to donate to the Buckeye Trail Asso- ciation. ESO represents dozens of local, national and international groups working to preserve, protect and defend Ohio’s and the world’s environment. ESO’s beneficiary organizations are some of the most respected and responsible environmental and conservation nonprofits in the country. You can designate your gift to ESO to benefit the BTA. There are two ways for you to do this: • First is through your workplace giving program. More than 79 work- ® places in Ohio now partner with ESO to offer their employees an environmental choice in their annual workplace giving campaign. Employees can check with their payroll offices or with ESO to deter- mine if they have the option to contribute to ESO. If your workplace already partners with ESO, you’ll just need to fill out a pledge form when your campaign runs! If your workplace does not have a giving One Environment . . . program or does not include ESO in an existing one you can ask your employer to do so. ESO will help One Simple Way to Care for It. you. • Secondly, you could give through your United Way Campaign. If your workplace offers a United Way giving drive and your local United Way includes ESO in its list of charities, you can select it from the list. Using Earth Share Ohio is an easy method for giving to the BTA through payroll deductions.

www.buckeyetrail.org BTA Trailblazer Summer 2013 17

www.earthshareohio.org Red Oak Camp Red Barn & Chincapin Summer Day Camp and year round Retreat Center DAY CAMP HORSEBACK RIDING OVERNIGHT SESSIONS TRAVEL OPPURTUNITIES LEADERHIP TRAINING FAMILY PROGRAMS Swimming Field Games Ropes Courses Hiking Climbing Wall Archery Canoeing Exploring Nature

YEAR-ROUND PROGAMS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE FOR RETREATS, FIELD TRIPS, TEAMBUILDING PROGRAMS, AND MORE

To register or book a retreat contact us today!

[email protected] 9057 Kirtland Chardon Rd. · Kirtland, Ohio 44094 · 440-256-0716 · www.redoakcamp.org

18 BTA Trailblazer Summer 2013 www.buckeyetrail.org THANK YOU TO OUR FRIENDS OF BUCKEYE TRAILFEST Zampini Cleaning Services The Oppenheim Family The Marino Family The Perotti Family Bruce and Beth Hutton Northeast Ohio Hiking Club Miami Rivers Chapter of the Buckeye Trail Jackie O’s Pub & Brewery

STUDIO ROSSI, INC. Specializing in Commercial/Advertising Photography 216.407.7554 http://www.studiorossiinc.com www.buckeyetrail.org BTA Trailblazer Summer 2013 19 Buckeye Trail Association NONPROFIT ORG. P.O. Box 254 US Postage Worthington, Ohio 43085 PAID CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED Cleveland, Ohio 44101 Permit No. 754

The label shows expiration date of your membership. Please renew before the date indicated. 2014 Camp Akita Logan, Ohio

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Go Green! Get Your Trailblazer Online!

Buckeye Trail a ssocia An interactive edition—with bookmarks to each trailblazerT ion story and active links—can now be sent to you. Founded 1959 SPRInG 2012 Volume 44 n o. 4 Have more of your membership $$ go into the Buckeye Trail!

debbie Zampini Get the electronic version of the Trailblazer three First Place Winners of the B Photo Contest tA On his spring 2011 Buckeye Trail thru-hike, Andy Niekamp enjoyed

the rocks in . He took first place in the cat- Andy niekamp earlier than the mailed version! egory On the Buckeye Trail. In thI s I ssue... 2 Our Trail . . . Message From 14 our President Scouts Follow the Blue 4 Blazes On Their Trail to Schedule of Hikes & Eagle Events 16 Trail Heroes of 2011 Sign up at buckeyetrail.org/newsletter.html 6 On the Trail . . . a Message 19 2012 MLK Day Hike at From our executive Director 20 7 Bits & Pieces Buckeye on the AT— What Can We Learn? 8 The Buckeye TrailFest 21 Barn Talk 12 NEW! QR Codes on BTA 22 Maps More BTA Photo Contest 23 13 A Series of Remarkable Buckeye Trail Picture Experiences and Other Quilt Hiking Life Lessons 24 End of Trail Bob Kurtz

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3/1/12 9:13 AM Report Your Volunteer Hours Online! We now have a new way to report those ever important volunteer hours. Every year there are volunteers who don’t report their hard earned hours. These reports help the program maintain and apply for addtional funds. Please take a few minutes to check out the online system. This online reporting tool is available at buckeyetrail.org/volunteerhours.html