October
Kind of a transition month in my mind. Getting pretty chilly during night if you're camping. Still nice and warm during the days. Some leaves are turning and it could snow up high almost any time. We go from fleece in the morning to Tshirts in the afternoon and back to fleece for the evening hours. We're tempted to drag out some winter stuff but know, deep down, that it's just a bit too early. It's time to get the ski pass but not yet time to ski. Yep, it's a transition month. Thank goodness we're in Pagosa and the transition is from fabulous to, well, still fabulous!
Kind of a transition month in my mind. Getting pretty chilly during night if you're camping. Still nice and warm during the days. Some leaves are turning and it could snow up high almost any time. We go from fleece in the morning to Tshirts in the afternoon and back to fleece for the evening hours. We're tempted to drag out some winter stuff but know, deep down, that it's just a bit too early. It's time to get the ski pass but not yet time to ski. Yep, it's a transition month. Thank goodness we're in Pagosa and the transition is from fabulous to, well, still fabulous!
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And now a message from our President, Joyce . . .Thanks to all who brought the good food to the last potluck in September. A special thanks goes to Jon Reed for letting us use his camp grounds again. The board got a gift certificate for him in appreciation. The weather was great and we all had a great time
We are looking for members to fill board positions starting in January. This is your opportunity to do something for the club and to bring in fresh new ideas. It is very rewarding to serve as an officer and a lot of fun, too! It's also a good way to get to know your fellow members. I know that we have a lot of new members that have joined in the past 3 years. Why not take that step and volunteer to be on the Board? Doug Farmer is in charge of the Nominating Committee. Give him a call. 731-2212 0r email him at douglasfarmer@centurytel.net or get in touch with any of the current Board at the next meeting. Remember: The club is what it is because of you. If we had no volunteers, there would be no club.
Don't forget the ski swap and bake sale on October 25th. We need lots of workers and lots of donations of baked goods.
That's all for this month. Hope to see you at the October meeting. Joyce
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A Note From Concerned Readers
A couple of articles in previous newsletters have mentioned hikers picking wildflowers. Concerned readers ask that I remind everyone that Leave No Trace means taking nothing but photographs out of our forests and leaving only footprints. Most often we are hiking in national forest or wilderness areas. As responsible stewards of the land, we should set the example that all wildlife, plants, etc. are to be left where they are found. So, please, in the future take only photographs away from the hike. Thanks.
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SPORTS SWAP
October 25th
October 25th
The annual SJOC Ski and Sports Swap is scheduled for Saturday, October 25 from 9:00 am to l:00 pm. The Swap is a service the SJOC provides the community by making low cost sports gear available. It is also a primary fund-raiser for scholarships the Club gives local graduating seniors each year and for local search and rescue.
Mark your calendar for Friday, October 24 and Saturday, October 25. The Swap organizers, Jim and Nancy Cole, will need lots of help as usual. Last year almost 50 Club members helped in some way with the Swap and the Club raised a near record amount for scholarships. Club members John Clay, Judy Collins, Linda Espinosa. Joyce Ramberg, Carrie Weisz and many others are helping to run various aspects of the Swap.
Look for the sign-up sheets at the October 2 SJOC meeting and sign up.
Help is needed to:
-Bring baked goods
-Check in goods from merchants and individuals and set up the Exhibit Hall at the
Fairgrounds on Friday night, Oct. 24 from 5:00 to 6:30.
-Check in goods Saturday morning (7:30 to 8:30) before the Swap opens at 9:00.
-Help with the bake sale on Saturday from 8:30 to 1:00.
-Help with sales of sports goods during the Swap from 9:00 to 1:00.
-Run the check-out for sales from 9:00 to 1:00.
-Check out unsold goods back to merchants or individuals from 1:00 to 2:00.
-Clean up the hall from 1:00 to 2:00.
-Tally up sales and amounts owed each seller on Sunday.
-Write the checks for goods sold to merchants and individuals.
The Swap receives the bulk of the goods for sale from area merchants. Their goods are used or last year’s products. Many of the merchants are very helpful to us during the Swap, agreeing to help buyers select goods including those not their own.
Individuals also bring many items to sell. So check your storage and find the items with some life left in them that you can part with. However, be forewarned: used items in good condition that are priced low sell the best.
The Club takes items on consignment and sells them for a consignment fee of 17%. That fee pays the expenses and leaves money for scholarships. The SJOC Board approved lowering the consignment fee this year from 20% to 17% as this number has become common throughout Colorado. In addition. Lowering the fee allows us to help the merchants a bit, as they help us so much to make this a successful event.
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September PotLuck
September 4th
A Big THANK YOU to Sportsman's Lodge for allowing us to, once again, gather, meet, & eat on their property!
September 4th
A Big THANK YOU to Sportsman's Lodge for allowing us to, once again, gather, meet, & eat on their property!
Relax & Enjoy is the name of the game.
Clearly, serious matters were discussed.
Now, this is what I'm talkin' about!
An excess in the poultry area led to the first ever Great Chicken Give-A-Way!
Next time, I'm taking a clue from the Draper's and bringing my own lunch tray. It's the only way to sample all the scrumptious goodies.
This is dedication to the cause. Members signing up for activities with the aid of headlamps.**********************************************
Salsa Festival
August 31st
On August 31, ten members went on a mission to find the best tasting salsa in Creede. The first stop we made was to the Old Firehouse for ice cream in preparation for the heat we expected to encounter. We also sampled fudge, drank beer, and did a little shopping. Some of us stayed to tour the Creede Museum, with its 19th century saloon bar. Then we drove a bit further past Creede to view North Clear Creek Falls which was really cranking.
Photos by Terry Baker
The daring members that went along on the salsa sampling mission were John & Sue Bozek, Leo & Donna Milner, Gary & Elizabeth Brewer, Sue Lomparis, Nathan Beach, Terry Baker, and Organizer Marsha Baker. (Where is Elizabeth?)
Sue sampling the home-made pie!
Here we are hanging out in the bar of the back room of the museum.
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Salsa Festival
August 31st
On August 31, ten members went on a mission to find the best tasting salsa in Creede. The first stop we made was to the Old Firehouse for ice cream in preparation for the heat we expected to encounter. We also sampled fudge, drank beer, and did a little shopping. Some of us stayed to tour the Creede Museum, with its 19th century saloon bar. Then we drove a bit further past Creede to view North Clear Creek Falls which was really cranking.
Photos by Terry Baker
The daring members that went along on the salsa sampling mission were John & Sue Bozek, Leo & Donna Milner, Gary & Elizabeth Brewer, Sue Lomparis, Nathan Beach, Terry Baker, and Organizer Marsha Baker. (Where is Elizabeth?)
Sue sampling the home-made pie!
Here we are hanging out in the bar of the back room of the museum.**********************************************
Conejos River/Duck Lake Backpack
September 9-12
Betsy Cotton
Believe it or not, three brave women signed up for my second Women's Backpack.
Charleen, Joan, and Susan joined me for the Conejos River SemiLoop which begins by the far end of Platoro Reservoir. This trail parallels the middle fork of the Conejos River, junctions with the CDT, then comes back along the north fork of the Conejos. Things did not go exactly as planned. But, then again, when do they ever?! Huh? Huh? Yeah! You KNOW what I'm talking about if you're a backpacker. If you're thinking about being a backpacker, the one attribute you should have is F-L-E-X-I-B-I-L-I-T-Y in what you take, where you plan to go, where you end up going, and the list goes on.
Susan, Joan, Betsy & Charleen at the trailhead.
Please notice that there is sunshine when we begin.
Susan, Joan, & Charleen near the Conejos Falls.
Not quite as sunny by this time.
Joan and her fly rod angel, Milo. The flyrod had come loose and fallen from Joan's pack, a fact not to be discovered until we were well along the trail. Just as we ascended from viewing the falls, Milo and his USFS fish stocking crew came by with a "Anybody lose a fly rod?" on his lips.
Soon after this happy reunion, we proceeded up the trail as the sky grew ominous. At the next fire ring we found, we decided it was time to create shelter and a good thing, too, since the ice pellets started the second I threw my rain fly on. We just managed to throw our gear into tents and under tarps before it really let loose on us. Well, most of us "just barely managed it." One of us had a bit of drying out to do when the clouds gave us a break.
I distinctly remember hearing Charleen pronounce, "Oh, we'll have a beautiful clear morning." (If you know Charleen, you know this is not an unusual statement for her to make.)
We all woke up to rain on our tents, snow on the Divide, and some really angry looking clouds. We decided to be F-L-E-X-I-B-L-E and change our plan. Out we went with wet tents packed, rain falling, sloshing through muddy horse tracks. We were glad to reach the car!
Off with the muddy togs
Instead of heading home to a hot bath and hot meal, we regrouped at the Elk Creek trail head (off Hwy. 17), dried out, and headed up to Duck Lake.
Our portable gear/clothes dryer
Susan & Charleen, the firebugs at Duck Lake campsite
The women by Duck Lake
(Again, let me remind you, that if YOU were Newsletter Editor, YOU could put in as much as YOU want about YOUR outings. hint hint)
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Evening Cookout and Night Hike September 13th
Easy Hike
September 20th
September 19th
Betsy Cotton
Well, there were only two paddlers in the piddle paddle but we paddled and piddled enough for a passel of piddle paddlers in Pagosa Lake! The predominant point is that we enjoyed piddling and we were pleased with our paddling and we propose that more people ponder the idea of participating when I plan another.
September 9-12
Betsy Cotton
Believe it or not, three brave women signed up for my second Women's Backpack.
Charleen, Joan, and Susan joined me for the Conejos River SemiLoop which begins by the far end of Platoro Reservoir. This trail parallels the middle fork of the Conejos River, junctions with the CDT, then comes back along the north fork of the Conejos. Things did not go exactly as planned. But, then again, when do they ever?! Huh? Huh? Yeah! You KNOW what I'm talking about if you're a backpacker. If you're thinking about being a backpacker, the one attribute you should have is F-L-E-X-I-B-I-L-I-T-Y in what you take, where you plan to go, where you end up going, and the list goes on.
Susan, Joan, Betsy & Charleen at the trailhead.Please notice that there is sunshine when we begin.
Susan, Joan, & Charleen near the Conejos Falls.Not quite as sunny by this time.
Joan and her fly rod angel, Milo. The flyrod had come loose and fallen from Joan's pack, a fact not to be discovered until we were well along the trail. Just as we ascended from viewing the falls, Milo and his USFS fish stocking crew came by with a "Anybody lose a fly rod?" on his lips.Soon after this happy reunion, we proceeded up the trail as the sky grew ominous. At the next fire ring we found, we decided it was time to create shelter and a good thing, too, since the ice pellets started the second I threw my rain fly on. We just managed to throw our gear into tents and under tarps before it really let loose on us. Well, most of us "just barely managed it." One of us had a bit of drying out to do when the clouds gave us a break.
I distinctly remember hearing Charleen pronounce, "Oh, we'll have a beautiful clear morning." (If you know Charleen, you know this is not an unusual statement for her to make.)
We all woke up to rain on our tents, snow on the Divide, and some really angry looking clouds. We decided to be F-L-E-X-I-B-L-E and change our plan. Out we went with wet tents packed, rain falling, sloshing through muddy horse tracks. We were glad to reach the car!
Off with the muddy togsInstead of heading home to a hot bath and hot meal, we regrouped at the Elk Creek trail head (off Hwy. 17), dried out, and headed up to Duck Lake.
Our portable gear/clothes dryer
Susan & Charleen, the firebugs at Duck Lake campsite
The women by Duck Lake(Again, let me remind you, that if YOU were Newsletter Editor, YOU could put in as much as YOU want about YOUR outings. hint hint)
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Evening Cookout and Night Hike September 13th
The evening cookout/hike was held on Sept. 13 on the Middle Fork of the Piedra River. Only 7 people showed up -- a small but cozy crowd. The cookout was held on the edge of a large meadow w/big views of Toner and Rock Mtns. The Moon showed up over the ridge about 8 and we all took a hike down to the river and then walked along the river. The weather was good, and the temperatures pleasant. Thanks to all who participated -- Gregg Howard
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September 20th
The easy hike was held on Sept. 20. We started from the 997 rd. 1 mi. NE of Sportsman Supply and followed an old closed woods rd. for about 2 mi. to near the base of Rooster Rock. There were some pretty nice views at the far end of the hike. We had 14 people participate in the hike. Some were first time hikers on the easy hikes. It was a fun hike and good group of folks. Thanks to all those who participated -- Gregg Howard
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September 19th
Betsy Cotton
Well, there were only two paddlers in the piddle paddle but we paddled and piddled enough for a passel of piddle paddlers in Pagosa Lake! The predominant point is that we enjoyed piddling and we were pleased with our paddling and we propose that more people ponder the idea of participating when I plan another.
Joyce piddling
Betsy paddling****************************************
Cumbres-Toltec Train Ride
September 25th
Our S.J.O.C. group got Fall off to a spectacular start with a scenic feast on the train between Chama and Osier. The warm, blue-skyed day allowed many to ride in the open car taking pictures and absorbing the historical comments imparted by the volunteer docent who was on board.
Marcia Baker has our huge appreciation for selecting the best possible trip package and giving her time lining up and organizing the group. How lucky we are to have her!
The lunch stop at Osier lived up to it's good reputation by giving a choice of Turkey, Meat loaf or Soup and Salad shortly after boarding. That allowed them to have everything ready when the train reached Osier. The large number of passengers from the East and West bound trains were served very quickly with delicious food.!
There was a happy, holiday atmosphere from start to finish on our perfect day of Fall color appreciation.
The following folks were along:
Marsha & Terry Baker, Sue & John Bozek, Jamie & Ted Dinkler, Bev Warburton & Ed Haynes, Betsy Cotton & her brother, Wade, Donna & Leo Milner, Karen & Joe Negri, Cindy & Bill Heller, Nancy Seay & her friend Hank, Erica & Bart Cox, Sandy & Pierre Mion, Helen Hoff & Will James, and Edwina Miller.
by Helen Hoff
The Train Gang
It doesn't take long to find the clown in the group, does it?
(cue music) I heard that train a comin', a comin' down the track. . .
Valley of changing colors.
Double engines up to the pass.
Now we see why it took two engines.
Turkey, Meatloaf, Soup, Salad, & oh yes, Desserts
The ride back
Fearless Leader, Marsha, enjoying her just desserts in Chama!
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A Note From Gregg regarding Activities
Last Easy Hike
That's it for this month, kids. Don't go crazy trying to figure out what to wear or if it's time to switch the warm weather gear for the cold weather gear just yet. It's not. Relax. Enjoy the changing colors and get out there and hike before it's too late! But wear orange when you do!!
And don't forget to visit the SWAP on the 25th to complete your winter gear needs!
Until next month. . .
Cumbres-Toltec Train Ride
September 25th
Our S.J.O.C. group got Fall off to a spectacular start with a scenic feast on the train between Chama and Osier. The warm, blue-skyed day allowed many to ride in the open car taking pictures and absorbing the historical comments imparted by the volunteer docent who was on board.
Marcia Baker has our huge appreciation for selecting the best possible trip package and giving her time lining up and organizing the group. How lucky we are to have her!
The lunch stop at Osier lived up to it's good reputation by giving a choice of Turkey, Meat loaf or Soup and Salad shortly after boarding. That allowed them to have everything ready when the train reached Osier. The large number of passengers from the East and West bound trains were served very quickly with delicious food.!
There was a happy, holiday atmosphere from start to finish on our perfect day of Fall color appreciation.
The following folks were along:
Marsha & Terry Baker, Sue & John Bozek, Jamie & Ted Dinkler, Bev Warburton & Ed Haynes, Betsy Cotton & her brother, Wade, Donna & Leo Milner, Karen & Joe Negri, Cindy & Bill Heller, Nancy Seay & her friend Hank, Erica & Bart Cox, Sandy & Pierre Mion, Helen Hoff & Will James, and Edwina Miller.
by Helen Hoff
The Train Gang
It doesn't take long to find the clown in the group, does it?
(cue music) I heard that train a comin', a comin' down the track. . .
Valley of changing colors.
Double engines up to the pass.
Now we see why it took two engines.
Turkey, Meatloaf, Soup, Salad, & oh yes, Desserts
The ride back
Fearless Leader, Marsha, enjoying her just desserts in Chama!**********************************************
A Note From Gregg regarding Activities
Last Easy Hike
The last easy hike will be held on Oct. 4 -- we will be hiking to Opal Lake, and then doing some bushwacking to some Old Growth stands of aspen. The colors should be just right, so bring your camaras. Afterwards a late lunch for those who want to participate.
Thanks to all those who participated in the easy hikes this past spring/summer. I had a lot fun sharing these hikes with you. We will pick it up with easy snowshoes in late November. I will do 2 easy snow shoes a month, and also do moonlight snow shoes each month, with possibly an evening cookout. We will also be offering other winter activities, so please check the SJOC calendar often.
That's it for this month, kids. Don't go crazy trying to figure out what to wear or if it's time to switch the warm weather gear for the cold weather gear just yet. It's not. Relax. Enjoy the changing colors and get out there and hike before it's too late! But wear orange when you do!!
And don't forget to visit the SWAP on the 25th to complete your winter gear needs!
Until next month. . .
