How Will Reservations at the SWC Lodge Work This Year? by Ellen Bidell
The Board of Directors met earlier in October and established the following system for reservations:
All stays are by reservation only. No walk-ups or same day reservations (the door code on your card won’t work; we are changing the code on a regular basis and sending it to people with reservations). Other lodging facilities in Vermont will not rent to you either, so plan ahead.
We will not accept reservations from members who reside in counties that are required to quarantine per Vermont rules. The list is updated on Tuesdays, so if you live in a county that may be exempt soon, please wait to make your reservation.
Members will only be allowed to stay at the lodge under the following circumstances:
The week is hosted (listed in the Chatter and on the website). There is a two-day minimum, and the price is $37.50 per night through the winter. We will keep the number of members in the lodge to less than 15.
The member reserves the entire house for a week for $500+. If you choose this option, you can come from a county that requires quarantining, since you will only be around family/close friends (limit of 10 people).
During hosted weeks, the following will apply:
Masks must be worn when in common areas, except when seated to eat.
Social distancing in the dining room and fireplace room is required.
Only one person in the bathroom at a time.
Only the host is allowed in the kitchen, meals will be pre-plated and placed on the counter for individual pickup. The host can establish staggered meal times.
The host will clean all common areas after breakfast.
According to Vermont regulations, quarantining means staying at the lodging/residence, except for solitary outdoor activities (hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing). Everyone who registers to stay has to fill out the Vermont COVID form.
The following weeks are scheduled with hosts:
Sat., Dec. 19 to Tue., Dec. 22 - Linda Belkas
Thu., Jan. 14 to Tue., Jan. 19 - Dennis Laufersweiler
Tue., Jan. 19 to Mon., Jan. 25 - Lat Schmidt
Sun., Jan. 24 to Sun., Jan. 31 - Don Streed
Mon., Feb. 1 to Sun., Feb. 7 - the Burtons
Thu., Feb. 11 to Sun., Feb. 21 - the Bidells and Simmons
Wed., Feb. 24 to Sat., Feb. 27 - Linda Belkas
Fri., Mar. 12 to Fri., Mar. 19 - Kate Walsh
Capital District Ski Council by Karen Simmons
The Capital District Ski Council has established a meeting schedule via the Zoom Pro platform. The meetings are held the first Wednesday of each month at 7pm through April 7, 2021. This month, the Council discussed the lack of Awareness Days and pandemic adaptations at the mountains. As information from the mountains is received it will be relayed to clubs. Mountains have asked for assistance in promoting season passes. More news to follow.
The annual election of officers is currently in process, and will conclude by the meeting in November.
Treasurer's Notes - September 2020 Results
by Don Streed
Financially, the first 4 months of the 20-21 fiscal year have produced good results. The 4-month $1,400 deficit is better than budgeted.
Membership dues total of $4,945 was 28% below last year’s total of $6,902. This year’s number is a bit misleading. Members have saved nearly $2,000 in membership dues by purchasing their EPIC and IKON passes through SWC’s link with Ski.com. In return, Ski.com will be paying SWC those membership fees in November.
Clubhouse lodging receipts of $4,357 compared favorably with the prior year $4,521. The $500 per week program has produced the desired result.
Administrative fiscal year-to-date (YTD) expenses of $2,081 were less than $2,881 in the prior year.
Clubhouse YTD expenses were $11,007. The Clubhouse number includes $4,077 insurance, $2,885 maintenance, and $2,553 for utilities.
Looking forward, no one knows what to expect in this period of Covid-19. There is concern re its impact on Clubhouse utilization. A substantial year total deficit is a distinct possibility, but club reserves protect our viability.
On another financial note, SWC’s venture into western trips has progressed well, especially considering Covid-19 concerns. The SWC trips to Breckenridge, CO, and Salt Lake City, UT, have nearly met their goals of 20 and 32 participants, respectively. Traveler deposits are on schedule, while trip costs have declined as we flex the plans around Covid-19 realities. The outlook is for trips to achieve their goal of a breakeven service for SWC members.
New Bike Group - Fall Outings by Don Streed
It was a great day for a leisurely ride at Ashokan Reservoir. Five SWC members explored the relatively new Ashokan Rail Trail in Ulster County.
The bike ride began at the Ashokan Station trailhead, just 11 miles west of Exit 19, Kingston. The group rode 5 miles west to the Esopus River trailhead and stopped along the way to take in the beauty of the lake and mountain views. Fall colors were maybe 20%, so still plenty of time in the season for others to catch even better colors. The trail was sparsely populated mid-week, so we rode most of the way side by side. On the return trip we admired some stunning fall woodland and marsh scenes as the sun was just at the right angle to highlight color and shadow.
Back at the cars, we picked up our lunch items and then rode on our bikes west on NY28 for three quarters of a mile and turned left on reservoir road. The slight downhill made the one-mile ride to the reservoir causeway a quick trip. Via the impressive arched causeway which bisects the 12-mile-long reservoir, we crossed the reservoir to the Promenade, a pedestrian only road along the top of the dam. The promenade provides grand views displaying the enormity of the reservoir against a backdrop of the majestic Catskill mountains.
We dropped down to the fountain park below the dam for a picnic lunch. The park fountain itself is a sight worth visiting. Then, on the return trip up to the Promenade, what should we encounter but the sighting of an adult black bear in the woods just below us. He was headed in the same direction that we were but at a safe distance below, and it was obvious he was not happy with human company as he broke into a trot across an open field and into thicker woods below the Promenade.
We returned along the causeway and Reservoir Rd and NY 28 to our cars. All felt it was a great outing. We had ridden 18 miles with good conversation, great scenery, lots of fresh air and much needed exercise.
The new bike group (yet to adopt a name) was initiated in the early summer by Maureen Kline, our new Activities VP. Over the course of the summer, 16 SWC members have joined the group, which aims to plan a group ride each week. The group watches the weather to determine the date. Locations are TBD, but are often within the Capital area or may require a bit of travel to locations such as Zim Smith, Erie Canal Trail, Indian Ladder Farms, Helderberg-Hudson. Suggestions welcome. The group has decided to journey to the Ashuwillticook Trail in western Mass, between Lanesborough and Adams, the week of October 19.
If you’d like to be included or have questions, please contact Maureen Kline (518-257-0593 or skiingmaureen@gmail.com) or Don Streed (518-339-2150 or dstreed1@nycap.rr.com).
Paddlers' 2020 Wrap-up by Ed Greiner
As with all activities that involve groups of people, paddle sports were disrupted in 2020. Early in the year, we did not know the extent to which the disruption would affect us. Most hoped that the inconvenience would be short-lived, but we soon found out differently.
There was much construction planned for the NYS Canal System this year. When the state went into lockdown, construction activities were suspended. The project that affected us locally was at Lock 7 in Niskayuna. The Canal Corporation kept the water level low to expedite the projects and did not raise it when the lockdown started. Between Lock 7 and 8, the water level wasn’t too bad; it was what we call suck-water because it feels like the water is sucking your boat down and backward. From Lock 8 to beyond Amsterdam, the riverbed was almost dry. You could literally walk across it in many places.
At the beginning of May, director Alec Davis postponed the start of weekly time trials because gatherings were prohibited throughout the state. We held informal time trials on Wednesdays and Saturdays, varying our location. Participants were really good about keeping our distance from others and wearing masks when on shore. When the Governor allowed gatherings of more than 10 people, we resumed our Wednesday time trials at Aqueduct Park in Niskayuna. The water was still low, which affected us heavier paddlers more than the lighter ones.
In June, when it became apparent COVID-19 was not going away any time soon, the other directors began cancelling races one by one. All of the Northern NY Paddlers’ races were cancelled. Throughout the year, only five races were run statewide. The more cautious paddlers avoided even those few races, though the directors reportedly took serious precautions to keep participants safe.
Locally, the core group of Paddlers went out a few times a week. Monday Night Paddling resumed after the water level returned to normal in early July. It was later moved to Lock 9 because Kiwanis Park was too crowded with families boating and having cookouts.
Maybe next year things will go back to almost normal. If not, we will continue to go out in small groups, maintain friendships from a distance and stay fit.
Ski Trips
SWC is planning two western ski trips this year. The first trip (Feb 6th to 13th) is to Salt Lake City, Utah, where we will ski at Alta, Snowbird, Brighton and Solitude (all IKON resorts). We will be staying in Sandy, which is at the base of the Cottonwood Canyons. This trip is basically full with the possibility to add a couple of rooms if you act soon. The second trip (Feb 27th to March 6th) is to Breckenridge, Colorado, where we will be ski-in/ski-out to Breck and close to Keystone, Vail and Beaver Creek (all EPIC resorts). There are XC and snowshoe trails just around the corner from our hotel. Even better, you can get a hotel room or a condo at this property. We do have a few spots left as I write this article, so touch base ASAP if you want to join us.
Trip and registration information are on the SWC website. Contact the trip leaders with any questions: Maureen Kline (skiingmaureen@gmail.com) or Don Streed (dstreed1@nycap.rr.com).
A Word from the President by John Bidell
The work weekend was a tremendous success with a great turnout. We finished many projects and I’d like to send a big thank you to all involved. We also had the floors resealed the following week. Mark kept us all well fed with great creations from the kitchen. We will continue to improve the property and get it ready for the winter season, but just remember that you cannot drop by the house. A reservation is required along with Vermont COVID paperwork.
We have a list of members interested in hosting so members can book individual stays. We have a procedure in place with a safe COVID-compliant process documented. The board is monitoring the Vermont COVID website along with other informational websites to maintain the most current procedures for safe house utilization. Also, please consider a weekly rental for $500. This is a great way to spend time in Vermont with family and friends for a reasonable price.
The ski council continues to actively pursue cheap ski days for us. Bill and Karen Simmons attend meetings and we could use additional representatives. The council meets once a month for a business and social meeting. Please contact Karen if interested in helping out.
With the intention of broadening our base (I love that expression), we hope to have more bike riders conducting rides and having riding weekends at the house. We have had groups ride in the Stowe area and they love it. Contact me if interested in hosting or for more information. Snowmobilers are also a group that we want to have participate in club activities. Vermont has a free trail usage weekend that we are partnering with Stowe area snowmobile clubs to organize an activity. Anybody interested should contact me for details.
IMPORTANT ITEMS:
No entry to the house without a reservation and a returned Vermont COVID form.
Be prepared to be sent home if you fail to fill out a Vermont COVID form upon arrival at the house since you can’t rent a room in Vermont.
If you want a Chatter mailed to you, contact me at 518-207-5961.
This is the last mailed version of the Chatter due to budget constraints.
We are all dealing with uncertain times but outdoor activities should remain high on your list of things to do. The club and your Stowe house can provide great opportunities for outdoor activities both with and without friends and family. Stay healthy. Stay active.
Looking Forward to Skiing by Bill Simmons
The snow is beginning to fly. The resorts are figuring out the "plan" for this year. But, most important of all, ski season is on its way. Things will be different and we will keep you posted as we hear the plans from the mountains. Some mountains are beginning to post opening dates, but of course changes can occur.
The club sold over 80 ski passes through the club link sponsored by Ski.com. All those who purchased a pass via the SWC link got a free club membership! It's still not too late to get a pass, but it is a bit more expensive. Check the SWC website for details.
The clubhouse is looking great. There have been a lot of updates and cleaning. It's worth checking out, but no reservation means no admittance. The club is closely following the Vermont guidelines. Please help share that information with fellow club members.
The western trips are filling up with limited space remaining. We have two great trips with amazing prices. Check out the website for the specifics, but its Salt Lake for an IKON adventure and Breckenridge for an EPIC experience.
‘Til next month...think SNOW!
SWC's Next Generation by Maureen Klein
As I reflect back to when I first joined SWC over 20 years ago, things have changed. Of course, the world has changed! What hasn't changed is the hard work that club members have put forth into the club and especially the ski house to have it for future generations. I want to thank those members for all their years of hard work and many of us know who I'm talking about. So, next time you see them, please thank them! The thing that these members want the most is to see the tradition continue. We need to keep things going and let the older generation enjoy themselves. So, it's time we get the younger generation a bit more involved. Let's focus on the knowledge of the older members as they lead us forward. But, also bring new and exciting ideas of the younger members to the club.
During the last several months, the pandemic has changed things and we must adjust. It doesn't mean close everything down. It means we have to change how things are done. People have still been able to do activities, but with a little more thought about how to approach them.
Let's think about the club. The club is more than a winter sports club, it is a year-round club. We have people doing all sorts of activities from biking to hiking to paddling during the warmer weather before the skiing (nordic and alpine), snowshoeing or even snowmobiling once the snow comes along. Most of these are social distancing activities!
So, how can you help? Plan an activity, let us advertise it and let others know about it. Then, write a short article in the newsletter about it. You would be amazed at how much fun you might have, and don't forget about the great folks you may meet. Then, what? Get someone else to plan an activity! Let's get the calendar full of activities, whether they are for retirees, working folks or families.
Don't let the older generation be the only ones who had fun, and trust me, they had some great fun. Especially at the clubhouse! Come join them at an activity and ask them to tell you the craziest thing they ever did. I think you would be surprised. By the way, next time you are at the clubhouse, check out the book about the history of the club. There are some really funny stories in it!
And now, you ask, how do I get involved?
A simple email to me as the activities’ coordinator will get the ball rolling (skiingmaureen@gmail.com).
I'm looking forward to a great year with the club. How about you?
Classifieds
For Sale from the estate of Richard Lewis: One Mad River Canoe (17.5 foot) and one Kayak, price negotiable. These are not the new super lightweight Kevlar boats but they are made to last with fiberglass and love. Mary Kuykendall is handling the transaction for the estate. You can call her on 518-344-6044 for more information.
Change of Address Notices Change of Address notices should be sent to: John Boscarino* boscarino126@aol.com
126 Polsin Dr, Schenectady, NY 12303-2516
Submissions for the Newsletter
Content submissions for the SWC Newsletter should be emailed to swcchatter@gmail.com by the 15th of the month and should include a contact name and phone number. Content that needs to be run in subsequent Newsletters must be resubmitted each month.
Names and Numbers to Remember
2020/2021 Board of Directors
John Bidell, President, C 518-207-5961
Don Streed, Treasurer, C 518-339-2150
Ellen Bidell, VP Administration, ebidell@yahoo.com
Susan Knapik, VP Nordic, sbknapik@yahoo.com
Maureen Kline, VP Activities, C 518-257-0593
Bill Simmons, VP Alpine, C 518-526-0882 or simmons872@aol.com
Karen Simmons, Secretary,C 518-361-8836
Bill Kornrumpf, Clubhouse Director & Host Coordinator, C 518-209-3244 or wkornrum@nycap.rr.com
Bill Schaefer, at large, H 518-728-9395
Bridget Barrett, at large
Ed Greiner, NNYP President, C 518-421-2947
John Rack, Mohawk Valley Hiking Club, H 518-399-5081
Dorie Valenti, Past President
Others:
John Boscarino, Membership, C 518-355-7319
Bridget Barrett, Newsletter Editor, C 518-300-0163
David Bensley, Newsletter Editor, C 845-750-0780
Newsletter Contact: swcchatter@gmail.com
Clubhouse at Waterbury Center, H 802-244-8918
2020-2021 Membership Renewal Visit www.swcweb.org to renew online. You must be a member to stay at the house this season.
