THC News February 2019
Enthusiastic volunteers promoted the TCT and THC at the Grafton Lake State Park Winterfest, 1/26/19
We all got lucky with the weather, dodging a day of heavy rains two days before and then a big freeze that turned everything to ice. It was a nice sunny day with a high only in the low 20s, but without wind. Everyone was dressed for the weather.
We had some nice conversations with the Rensselaer Plateau Alliance (RPA) and the Rensselaer Land Trust (RLT) about collaborating and partnering. We gained some new members and sold some maps, so it was a good day for the Club.
All in all, the Winter Fest was quite popular, with big crowds, lots of engaging activities, and kids galore. It was great fun, and the new Welcome Center was simply perfect.
See you there next year, Karen Ross
Trail Work in January???
Who knew you could do trail work in the middle of winter? THC trail stewards Ed Slattery, Walt Addicks and Dave Cole each reported that they did trail work on the TCT and access trails in early January! The club is fortunate to have their enthusiasm and dedication to keeping the trail clear!
Upcoming Outings
Check the Winter Bulletin or the Outings page of the website for complete details. Also check out the Taconic Hiking Club Facebook page to see pictures from past outings! See you on the trail!
• Tuesday, February 5 - Kennedy Park, Lenox, MA
• Sunday, February 10, 2019: Greylock Glen Trails
• Saturday, February 16: Lake Bonita and Lake Ann, Moreau State Park, Wilton
• Wednesday, February 27: Dyken Pond, Grafton, NY
More of Karen’s report on the THC at the Grafton Winter Fest below:
We could not have had much better weather for the event!
Some fine volunteers showed up to man the THC table and to spread the word about the Club’s activities and stewardship, and to introduce some new folks to the Taconic Crest Trail. We are very thankful to all of them for taking the time to come out to Grafton.
Mary MacDonald helped set up early in the day and stayed for hours.
We found ourselves stationed in a room that was dedicated mostly to snakes, and every time we turned around, some python or Texas rat snake or a yellow or red one was draped around someone’s neck. One snake took an interest in our maps and tried to fill out an application for membership!
Karen Cedar had several engaging conversations with prospective members.
Lori McCarron led a snowshoe outing along Long Pond mid-day.
With all the dark clothing everyone was wearing, the THC people were clearly visible!
Bob Armao, Sharon Bonk, and Dale Blanchet spent a good bit of time with the crowd in the room, talking about all the wonderful things THC does to connect people with the outdoors.
Two people were very keen on doing the End-To-End in 2020, and we expect them to sign up for it.
Hearing this, a neighboring lizard wandered over to see if the “Bloody Foot” would fit him too.
New Welcome Center at Grafton Lakes State Park during Winterfest
Many thanks to Karen Ross for arranging for the THC T shirts for our volunteers at the event!!!