HISTORY OF THE OUTDOOR CLUB OF SOUTH JERSEY Beginning in the mid 1960’s, families in the Mt. Holly, NJ area began informally to discuss a club around the kitchen tables including those of Bert & Betty Nixdorf; Dale and Kay Knapschaefer and Water & Nora Hayes. In 1964, Bert published “Let’s Go and See – Day Trips in New Jersey and Southeastern PA”. Walter was a paraplegic after injuries in WWII. He passes on his knowledge of the Pine Barrens to Nora who then leads hikes. Nora states, the Club was started in 1966 by Dale & Kay Knapschaefer from Pennsauken, NJ who were involved with American Youth Hostels. In 1967 the Outdoor Club of South Jersey was formally organized. 2 or 3 outings a month for 10 months of the year.

The 1969 Jan.- June schedule notes Dale Knapschaefer has left the area and Bert Nixdorf is new

president.

By 1969 a small group of 6 families and additional single members for a total of 10 charter members was enough to apply for a charter by the American Youth Hostels. A 1969 article in the Burlington County Times shows Bert Nixdorf, the OCSJ President at the home of Walter and Nora Hayes in Willingboro, NJ. The article begins -What is the oldest and least expensive outdoor activity? Hiking. Where can you find people who enjoy the outdoors on weekend jaunts? The American Youth Hostels Outdoor Club of South Jersey. How can you catch up with them? Tomorrow …Oct. 26

Clip from Earliest Known Dittoed Club Schedule

Sunday, January 5,1969 SNOW HIKE, COOKOUT AND SLEDDING IN VALLEY FORGE STATE PARK Meet at 1:00 pm at the Fort Washington Picnic Area and parking lot on route 23(also known as Port Kennedy Rd.) Bring your hotdogs and hamburgers. We’ll have lunch first, then go for about an hour hike. Following the hike, you will be able to sled on the slopes, snow conditions permitting. …so Remember to put your sled in the car, too! Leaders: Betty and Bert Nixdorf A sampling of other activities listed: March 23, Sunday entry “See the Pines before the Jetport Arrives.” April 13 Bicycling Safety Clinic *Safety was always important* May 25 Sunday-Canoe the Oswego River. Children & non-swimmers must wear life vests. Orienteering offered by Caroline & Kent Ringo- *Founders of Delaware Valley Orienteering Club Names mentioned Bert & Betty Nixdorf, Nora & Walter Hayes, David Jack, Bob Reich, Caroline & Kent Ringo, Dutch Muetz and Shirley Burwell (Secy.)

Trip fee 10 cents per child under 18 & students 15 cents per adult

1970 The Club is affiliated with American Youth Hostels, Membership is less than 50 persons. 1971 Oswego River Trip is record breaker. 76 paddlers, 28 canoes. 1972 March-July Activity Schedule. Cranberry Farm Tour was another record breaker. 67 participants. At least 2 bicycle rides per month. Note: Hopefully, We’ll be able to eliminate $1.25 membership fee in a few years and survive on only the participation fee which remains 15 cents for adults, and 10 cents for children & students under 18. We will depend on growth & participation in activities. Bert Nixdorf, OCSJ President, Trip Chair, and Author writes articles for Burlington County Times Slogan Used is “Outward Bound All Year Long” THE OCSJ EXPERIENCED DRAMATIC GROWTH FROM 1971 200 MEMBERS & 50 ACTIVITIES 1973 500 MEMBERS & 63 ACTIVITIES 1975 750 MEMBERS & 109ACTIVITIES 1977 850 MEMBERS & 146 ACTIVITIES 1979 1300 PLUS AND 213 ACTIVITIES

Incorporated 1980 as the A.Y.H. OUTDOOR CLUB OF SOUTH JERSEY, INC. Recorded by the Secretary of State on June 11, 1980 ON JUNE 11, 1980 Signed by Thomas P. Brooks, President and 6 of the initial trustees.

BERT NIXDORF ANNEMARIE SEIFRIED DELEANA A. ADAMS JOSEPH N. TRUJILLO BOZIE MARIE SHEPARD RICHARD GREVE

September 1981 marks the first membership increase since 1974 and the end of Lifetime memberships ($15 Individual, and $30 Family. Membership is now $2.50 Individual and $5.00 Family. 1982 A Ballot question concerning a change of name to Outdoor Club of New Jersey. I guess we know the winner. The October 1982 –March 1983 booklet has a cover story “END OF THE TRAIL” that featured Dick Greve reaching 2000 milestone on the AT. He finished the trail on July 4, 1982 after starting in 1975.. First Annual Volunteer Weekend at Appalachian Trail Conference Headquarters in Harpers Ferry, WV. 1983 July-September “SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT” marks the beginning of Quarterly activity schedules. June 25-August10,1984, Don Mount completes 3,375 mile cycling trip across America, September 22,1984 saw the first Batona Trail (40.6 miles) end to end in one-day event. For later hikers, it really did get longer as the years passed. *trail is approx. 52 miles today* The 1985 Winter Activity Booklet introduced the familiar OCSJ Logo. An Awards committee headed by George Muscat ran a contest in the Club booklet. The winning entry was by Susan Jarvis. Dropped was the AYH Outdoor Club of South Jersey Logo which pictured a child in a divided circle in the middle -walking, biking, and canoeing and an outer circle band that said Outdoor Club of South Jersey and AYH at the bottom and under the circle Incorporated in 1980

The Club had 1,600 members Membership increased to $4.00 Single, $6.00 Family.

1985 saw Wednesday Hikes become a reality. The “Beast of the Beast of the East “metric century bike rides commenced. 1989 First Cape May Weekend .

In the Fall of 1990 Bicycling appoints Coordinators for the different ride classifications.

The Fall 1990 Booklet is named the “RAMBLER’ The Winter 1991 Booklet is named the “WAYFARER “ The Spring of 1991 introduces the present Booklet name “TREKKER”

1991 2,000 members

Thomas Brooks, President January -ongoing hope new computer service resolves. Problems with accuracy of membership. New specifics- 6 digit membership number, label with renewal date, 2 month grace period after failure to renew (kept in data base), but no Trekker. Present Constitution only requires Executive Committee-does not specify any certain officers are necessary. Activity chairs not part of Board Insurance no longer available from AYH. Wilderness Survival Couse up to now separate from rest of club. Graduates of WSC will still get 1 year complimentary OCSJ membership (started January 1989) Long Walk held in April Because of volume of calls to membership secretary all correspondence must be in writing. Beast of East Cycling Event in September-261 RIDERS Fall of 1991 Club reaches a new milestone 2000 members. Membership fee increases to Individual $8.00 and family $10.00 Door prizes at Christmas party INCLUDE A CARRIAGE RIDE.

1992 2,063 members. Joseph Trujillo, President Bert Nixdorf Award to Cedar Run Refuge $200 Phil Iapalucci appointed to PPA Board. Plans for 25th. 200 limit for dinner 144 English Iron Stone 25 th. Beige with 25 th. Anniversary Emblem Royal Blue ,OCSJ Emblem Royal Blue. Club purchases Sports Liability Insurance for members. First Aid Kits for leadership awards. Sept. 12407 rides -Beast of East. 1 claim for damage to bike. Rejected. Anniversary dinner 4 claim not eat & want to be reimbursed. -Rejected. Approved: Board member removed- or Resigned) - if missed too many meetings -no proxy attended. Charitable contributions committee

PAST PRESIDENTS 1967-1968 DALE KNAPSCHAEFER 1968-1970 BERT NIXDORF 1970-1971 WALTER HAYES 1971-1972 JOE SIGONA 1972-1981 BERT NIXDORF 1981-1991 TOM BROOKS 1992-2000 JOSEPH TRUJILLO

PRESIDENTS 1967-1968 DALE KNAPSCHAEFER 1968-1970 BERT NIXDORF 1970-1971 WALTER HAYES 1971-1972 JOE SIGONA 1972-1981 BERT NIXDORF 1981-1991 TOM BROOKS 1992-2000 JOSEPH TRUJILLO 2001-2002 JOHN BAUER 2003 JAN.-MAR. MANNY ROBBINS 2003 APR. – 2004 APRIL MIKE BAKER 2004 MAY-2006 DEC.DENNIS MCKANE 2006 DECEMBER-2009 KATHLEEN PEARCE 2010-2011 TOM NEIGEL 2012-2013 BRUCE STEIDEL 2014-2015 BOB DIMARCO 2016- BARBARA BRANDT

1991 2,000 members Thomas Brooks, President January -ongoing hope new computer service resolves. Problems with accuracy of membership. New specifics- 6 digit membership number, label with renewal date, 2 month grace period after failure to renew (kept in data base), but no Trekker. Present Constitution only requires Executive Committee-does not specify any certain officers are necessary. Activity chairs not part of Board Insurance no longer available from AYH. Wilderness Survival Couse up to now separate from rest of club. Graduates of WSC will still get 1 year complimentary OCSJ membership (started January 1989) Long Walk held in April Because of volume of calls to membership secretary all correspondence must be in writing. Beast of East Cycling Event in September-261 RIDERS Door prizes at Christmas party INCLUDE A CARRIAGE RIDE.

1992 2,063 members. Joseph Trujillo, President Bert Nixdorf Award to Cedar Run Refuge $200 Phil Iapalucci appointed to PPA Board. Plans for 25th. 200 limit for dinner 144 English Iron Stone 25 th. Beige with 25 th. Anniversary Emblem Royal Blue ,OCSJ Emblem Royal Blue. Club purchases Sports Liability Insurance for members. First Aid Kits for leadership awards. Sept. 12407 rides -Beast of East. 1 claim for damage to bike. Rejected. Anniversary dinner 4 claim not eat & want to be reimbursed. -Rejected. Approved: Board member removed- or Resigned) - if missed too many meetings -no proxy attended. Charitable contributions committee

1993 2,013 members Joseph Trujillo, President Club joins American Canoe Association 26 participants in long walk-8 completed 50 miles 107 volunteers for 8 th. Annual Earth Day. $10 Gift certificates for Leadership Awards- store depends on activity. Learn to canoe -well attended Sister Club in Siberia “Outdoor Club of Siberia” Club Insurance -not cover canoeing Map and compass course. Charitable Contributions Committee report. List not exclusive, but dynamic -changing as our needs change.

1994 1,972 members Joseph Trujillo, President Board authorizes payment to any member attending pinelands Short Course two new policies February-Helmets mandatory for all bike riders-voted by leaders Life vests mandatory for all persons on board water craft-New Federal Law Schedule includes -Compass Instruction, paint Ball combat, Dinner Cruise from Sea Isle City., Flat Tie Clinic March-Club Policy Dogs allowed on hikes at discretion of leader. In addition to NJ Law-Dogs on State property must be on leash April Pace pledge added to book-keep classes at recommended pace. May telephone hotline approved 427-7777 Q&Q requested ad with biking $250 offset cost in Phone Book. June -New insurance (MCKAY), New sign-in, incident report forms. Board rejects umbrella policy. Conflict Beast of East-Forest service issued permit to another group Girl Scout Troop 331 issued membership card. September “Beast of East” event 300 participants-3 accidents $500 profit donated to PPA October Pizza Party for volunteers of Beast of East

1995 1,947 members Joseph Trujillo, President Holiday Party Club 25, Maple Shade 6 th. Annual Cape May Weekend. 500 Club Patches Trips planned for California and Norway. LAST BEAST OF EAST

1996 1,857 members (February 1996) Joseph Trujillo, President Earth day cleanups at Whitesbog, Rancocas State park, 2 Day Backpack Cleanup to lower Forge 3 River Cleanups-Oswego, Mullica, Cedar picked up 480 lbs. of trash Club received certificate of appreciation for 2nd year from State of New Jersey. Letter of thanks from PPA and Bicycling Coalition of Delaware Valley. Water safety rules of phone hotline. No reimbursements for travel approved. Club favors single use trails. No longer member of ACA

1997 August 1976 members. Joseph Trujillo, President Motion for Singles’ Chair not pass. October Proposed Accounting recommendations. Cyclists Leaders meeting at Brick Oven Restaurant in Mt. Laurel

1998 1,963 members Joseph Trujillo, President January $700 approved to purchase brush cutter. August I’m on Board

1999 1,876 Members (April) Joseph Trujillo, President April Table at WPEN Senior Expo at Garden State Race Track Table at cherry hill Drug Alliance event at Cherry hill Hilton. 1000 Decals purchased. hats purchased. Bike shirts purchased. No new members willing to chair Holiday party. Proposal of meetings every 2 months voted down.

2000 1,780 members Joseph Trujillo, President Cycling has 60 ride leaders. Organizing an OCSJ team for MS ride

2001 1733 members John Bauer President Minutes will be mailed to board -rather than rather than reading at meetings. “Until such time as we determine what insurance policy actually states, only active OCSJ members are eligible to lead ab activity” approved 14 to 1. Canoe trip on Raritan added. Canoe trip in New Hampshire NOTE Beast of East not held in years- Past source of income. March OCSJ Website up May -revision of Guidelines for leaders -hand out. October-Booth at PPA Whitesbog Festival Note all Delaware canoe trips require a whistle Wilmington trail Club offering lessons to OCSJ members No hikes to start or end at Wharton Campsites September 2 buses scheduled for NY cancelled due to 9-11 Attack on WTC 2 canoe trips planned per month during the Winter OCSJ MS riders raise $25,000

2002 January

1748 members John Bauer President since Jan.2001 Looked into alternate insurance- no success. Grand Mile Club started. By Bill Poulson

2002 February

Plaque to Kathleen and Frank Pearce for efforts in organizing Annual Holiday Party.

2002 April

Cleanup Unexpected. Joe Trujillo, co-coordinator. April 13 Long Walk -50 mile Batona Trail

2002 June

$250 donated to Gateway Alliance for NJ section

2002 July

On 13 th. Trenton Thunder Baseball Game Volunteer Award Certificate from State of NJ one of many Club Awards Policy Established Problem with Insurance Coverage.

2002 August

Policy, in interest of safety, not list activities in wooded areas where hunting may occur during 6 day shotgun dear season.

2002 September

Awards Dinner resumed at Prince Dinner Burlington, NJ Last meeting at Cherry Hill Library due to Construction of new facility.

2002 October

Oct. 6 Whitesbog Festival Booth New Insurance thru McKay linked to Bicycle Touring Group Meeting at Mt Laurel library.

2002 November

Old records sorted and organized by Kathleen Pearce

2002 December*

Certificate of Appreciation presented to Joseph Fabian for Volunteer service as ride leader and Treasurer (July 1987-December 1992) and January 1995-December 2002) John Bauer thanked for 2 years as President and before that as Vice President

2003 January

1896 members Manny Robbins becomes President Manny Robbins forms Automation Committee

2003 February

Committee recommends that Club consider establishment of financial reporting, recording, and review standards in order that, in future, expenses have desired transparency Insurance doesn’t cover downhill skiing. P&L Oct.2002-Jan.2003 loss of $787

2003 March

Resignation of Manny Robbins President Automation Sub-Committee (Mike Baker, Bob Bruneau, and Alan Horowitz) looks at opportunities to reduce operating costs and improve communications through increase automation. Propose: Website primary source-printed Trekker available at possible higher cost Clyde Zarkos Creates a display board for Board Meeting and Events. Bus trips to be run if sufficient participation before cancellation date.

2003 April

Mike Baker takes over as President OCSJ and Richard Greve presented a Certificate of appreciation from ATC

2003 May

Board approves proposed Automation Committee proposal to utilize increase automation to reduce costs and improve membership. Plans for joint canoe trips with Wilmington trail Club.

2003 June

Group Activities policy approved. Budget for 2002/2003 project loss of $9,600 Look into options. Raise dues, keep same and reduce reserves. Consider ending multi-year membership. Insurance increases 280 % from, .50 to $1.40 per member. Family membership is 2 adults and minors. Objective of requiring sub-groups to report on finances will cause income to increase May be required to file 99 Membership dues increased (1 yr) $13 single, $15 family (3 yr) $ 36 single and $ $42 family effective immediately The Constitution and Bylaws to be included in Summer Trekker as a pull out.

2003 July

Meeting at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Hainesport, NJ Article about club in Inquirer Absentee voting –not allowed by OCSJ Bylaws and Constitution. Mike Bake thought we should hold off increase until we have more board members present. Joe Trujillo proposed we hold off on dues increase and wanted to review line by line expenses. Chris Denneler didn’t see need to increase. Norm Cook suggested that minutes be posted on website and it was approved.

2003 August

President Mike Baker explains work has made it difficult to devote time club. He asks that a Vice-President be found. It was proposed that dues be increased less to keep below the income level that would require Fed 990.

2003 September

June Dues increase will stand but will not go into effect until January 1, 2004.

2003 October

Dennis McKane-Vice President. Ray Kassekert is Webmaster but cannot be available24/7 Booth at Whitesbog. OCSJ MS Team raised nearly $50K, and was the largest contingent of any biking club.

2003 December*

Trekker has incorrect dues listed as $15 and $20)

2004 January

Mike Baker, President. Meeting at St. Pious X Church, Cherry Hill Discussion of Club leader qualifications and characteristics. Overpayments of dues-if asked refund, or extend membership.

2004 February*

1847 members Request for help from Activity coordinator-minimum put activities on computer disc in correct format

2004 April

New OCSJ Topica list –open to only OCSJ members

2004 May

Mike Baker resigns as President. Vice President Dennis McKane is new President 2 river cleanup trips added to list Member Club serving in Iraq –club to pay his dues

2004 June

Financial records to be stored in Pearce Basement Photo taken of 4 past presidents at Pakim Pond. (Bert Nixdorf, John Bauer, Joe Trujillo, Many Robbins) Club Historian Kathleen Pearce volunteered 200 mile longest day bike ride-High Point to Cape May 200 mi) 4 Cycling shirts presented to riders in Cross America ride (Fran Horn, Ora Sue McKinnon, John and Sue Palaitis)

2004 July

Use of Term Singles Event is exclusionary and in Violation of OCSJ stated policy. Social is permitted. OCSJ Business Cards handed out. Give out rather than Trekkers Need for policy on extended trips

2004 August

Financial audit –No problems Bill Poulson Minor (under 18) cannot join on own. Reflections on passing of Richard Greve, Backpacker of Entire AT, Hostel trip Leader, Cross Country Ski Chair Club purchases canopy for use at festivals etc. fp$160 Free safety course open to members

2004 September

Kathleen Pearce appointed Vice President Policy Quarterly schedule would no longer be sent routinely to newspapers & perhaps should add disclaimer about using without permission (Bachelor Pad Articles – and use in singles articles

2004 November

Board approve Club Banner. Board approves expense for serving help at Holiday Party. OCSJ purchases MS Word for activities coordinator Joe Trujillo Waiver for minors discussed –Insurance company provided waiver form. To be signed by parent or guardian

2004 December

Cross Country Ski Trips are listed in the Trekker for the first time (No longer separate schedule) Richard Greve Memorial started –funds to be awarded to active OCSJ Leaders for advanced leadership training. Annual Harper’s Ferry work trip renamed to “Richard Greve Memorial Work trip”. Use of mail service proposed –Joe Trujillo, who has handled Trekker and mailing for many, many years, would no longer have to label, sort, and mail the Trekkers manually. Mail Permit to be changed from Rancocas to Bellmawr. Reaffirm that leader’s expenses should be compensated. Motion that all subscription renewals be sent to PO box 455 and not to various members of club. No longer need to pay for mailing labels to former provider

2005 January

1762 members Dennis McKane, President Grand Mile Club-Bill Poulson All Activities for Trekker now sent to Frank Pearce rather than Joe Trujillo who still remains activities Chair Postal regulations don’t permit the inclusion of ads not directly related to club activities-they will no longer be included. George and Leona Fluck plan beginners paddling classes before some trips. Paddling training sessions at Lake Lenape. More sea kayaking. Subsidized actives defined as activities used by whole club and not just special areas.

2005 February

Discuss ending password protection of website. Memorandum from Dec 1994 talks of awards including free lifetime membership

2005 March

First mailing using Able mailing service. Return receipt requested to discover how many Trekkers not being delivered by PO. Website now non password protected REI opens in Marlton –Board invited March 17 Offered free use meeting room Trekker schedule activity transferred to Frank Pearce from Joseph Trujillo

2005 April

Courier Post article on canoeing. Burlington Times “Best Hikes for Children” Pat Burton interviewed. Policy All paddlers must wear PFD Discussion on Electronic /Mailed Trekker options .KP

2005 May

Kathleen Pearce –cleaning up mailing list and moving people into inactive file, when they cannot be contacted. 46 lifetime members removed from mailing list –Trekkers not deliverable Motion to charge for balanced checks defeated Table purchased for festivals etc.

2005 June

Discussion on increasing access to website by Activity Chairs etc. Joe T. requests $500 for Unexpected Wildlife Refuge to acquire additional land. OCSJ database received from Kathy Borton –no longer maintaining membership list. Wetland Institute asked help in creating Jersey Island Blueway-Kayak trail Ocean City to Cape May George and Leona Fluck add Skills Refresher Days at lake Oswego Family Day at lake Oswego

2005 July

Meeting at New Cherry Hill Library Rolland Garber leads tour of Battleship NJ Presentations on Canoeing and Hiking presented by Joe Trujillo and Frank Pearce at Bass River. Club participates in 1 st. Millville Summer Fest Club must approve all links on website Jean Stelmaszyk doing data base entry Expirations to be placed on Trekker mailing labels

2005 August*

Batona Trail map created by member, Frank Pearce, on website

2005 October

Insurance not cover trips outside US except Canada & U territories. Insurance for Board Members added 100 the Anniversary of Bass River State Forest OCSJ participated in events.

2005 November

Standard Meeting Places Page added to Trekker

2006 January

Dennis McKane, President 1663 members Starting with Spring Trekker members can opt out of receiving printed Trekker First 990 form filed for club by Raible Cornaglia & Co.LLC –Club membership extended to them and mentioned on website Tony Marchionne Cycling Chair Replaces Alan Horowitz Option of not receiving Trekker Start Spring 2006

2006 March

George Fluck has generously offer to create new OCSJ site. His offer also includes hosting the website at no fee on his computer server. George would be Webmaster would alternate web master being Frank Pearce. Activity chairs would also have access to updating website. If site is approved by the Board of Trustees, domain name remains property of OCSJ and website would be transferred to the new server. George thought it would take approximately one month to create new website. Once site created Board of Trustees to vote on transfer.

2006 April

Geocaching: or no Geocaching. Footnote will be placed in the Trekker with the decision left to the club leader.

2006 May

A second Club banner to be purchased. “Policy on Waiver and Sign-in Sheets adopted as official policy. Members help with GS programs. Cohansey river Cleanup added to list of cleanup projects.

2006 June

The skills refresher class on Lake Oswego, had many kayakers take part. Millville Summer Fest will be on Sat. July 8th. 4. New geocache called Island Hopping is in honor of the OCSJ and Frank Pearce. 5. The Jersey Blueway trip had 20 people participate. Hotdog Hike had 60 people many returning alumni.

2006 July

Guest policy approved. “Guest may try each activity 1 time with exception of overnight trips” Leaders Guideline Change Leader will no longer be required to show up if an activity is cancelled. If inclement weather check hotline for cancellation. More links approved. Camping weekend at Lake Absegami was very successful.

The Leave no Trace Policy. www.LNT.org” Motion was approved.

2006 August

Minors on sign-in sheets. ”Parents or designated adults are responsible for minor children (under 18) and must sign for them and accompany them.”

2006 September

Cycling Chair Tony Marchione in TV commercial for MS 150 on Channel 11. Club promotes NJ State Trail survey 12 Members help at Paddle Medford Day. Eileen Greve made a motion to amend the overnight trip policy to

read; The financial report for all overnight trips ($50+) will be sent

directly to the Treasurer. Toni Novak seconded. The motion

passed.

2006 October

Frank Pearce, the Pinelands Commission has asked him to present a class, on paddling, at the Pinelands Short Course. Pineland Discovery Day cancelled. Country Living Fair this Sun. at Batsto.

2006 November

The Div. of Parks and Forestry, NJ, has recognized the OCSJ for

many hours of volunteer works.

OCSJ Award Dinner will be held Fri. April 13, 2007. Award

recipients will be allowed to bring a complimentary guest.

2006 December

Dennis McKane resigns as President Vice President Kathleen Pearce becomes President (first woman) Guest policy change approved. “Guest may try each activity 1 time including overnight trips” 13 for, 5 opposed. Motion passed. Batona Trail 50 mile hike run. 13 members receive patch.

2007 January

1,455 members Kathleen Pearce, President Club needs to raise money-reserves too low $8,151 Lost $2,864 current year. Awards Dinner cancelled End reimbursements for courses except if funded by Greve Fund Telephone hotline eliminated. Membership (1 yr) raise to $20 Single and $25 Family 3 year memberships eliminated Plus $5 for paper Trekkers (4) Website free 9 yes, 4 no, 2 abstain

2007 March

OCSJ BYLAWS placed on website Annual Budget to be placed on website. Canoeing Presentation at Pinelands Short Course by OCSJ members Frank & Kathleen Pearce

2007 April

Items for sale must be sold at cost (we are not 501C3 tax exempt organization) Can charge for shipping and handling Cannot use Tax Exempt forms Promote website more in Trekker Batona Trail -brush cut, repaired footbridges, new trail blazing system steel band with tree hugging nails.

2007 May

Guidelines proposed for Richard Greve Memorial Fund Maintain min $1000 Annually award less than 10% to active leader with Board Approval. Written Memorial Fund For advanced leadership training, etc. Application to Club. Brief presentation of seminar to Board. Each member eligible for 1 lifetime reimbursement Use for educational fees only. Not Tax deductible Option on membership application for contribution. 20 th. Anniversary of Batona Trail Extension celebrated.

2007 August

Policy for Photo submissions to OCSJ Website

2007 September

Leader’s Breakfast held at Atsion Lake.

2007 November

Complains must be submitted in writing. If complain deals with a trip leader, then that leader is asked to submit a written report. President or executive committee will resolve issue. Accident reports must be submitted in writing “Save a Tree –read the Trekker on line” should be placed on website About 50% of renewals are requesting E-Trekker

2007 December

500 mile Club to Start in January-Janet Horton

2008 January

Kathleen Pearce, President Lecture on Ultra-Light Backpacking by Kevin Vandergrift at Mt. Laurel Library

2008 February

Total Members as of 2/14/08- 1,400 Post cards with “Oops” have been printed in bright green; these are a reminder for subscription renewals. Nancy Pomilio will again be the Captain for the MS Tour OCSJ Team.

2008 March

Tom Neigel presented a Hiking course at the Pineland’s Short Course program.

2008 April

John Bauer, a past President of OCSJ, has died (minutes)

2009 May

Bob Bruneau, former hiking activity chair, passed away on May 23, 2008

2008 June

Toni Novak will take the old sign in sheets and put them in storage with Iron Mountain Storage. We will have our own OCSJ #. Kathleen Pearce presented a draft of a Welcome Letter, to be sent to new members giving information on the club. If a leader does not turn in their sign-in sheets their activities will not be published.

2008 August

Biking: iPods -- Bike rules no I pods on biking trips.

2008 October

Storage: Tom Neigel would like to place OCSJ information in a Yahoo group For filing purposes, to be accessed by Board members only.

2008 November

Fran Horn made a motion to reimburse Board members up to $50 for expenses (such as gas). 750 Mile Club approved.

2008 December

Gift wrapping for LL Bean raised $500 plus $288 in tips for Greve Fund

2009 January

1,320 members Kathleen Pearce, President $21,645 total cash in Treasury Grand Mile Club began it’s 8th year. Veteran leaders - Hall of Fame. Suggested having Hall of Fame on website

2009 February

AYH has been dropped from the club’s name. We are now the Outdoor Club of South Jersey. There are 60 activities for paddlers in the Spring Trekker

2009 March

Pat Burton and Joe Trujillo presented a course on backpacking/ hiking for the Pinelands Short Course We now have 3 recurring weekly evening hikes.

2009 April

Walt Stelmaszyk, a long time member and leader of the club has passed away.

2009 May

Board meeting held at Cherry Hill Armory. Club Day Event at Cherry Hill Armory. The event included lectures and displays by the OCSJ, Bell Haven, LL Bean, REI, EMS and D&Q and the Paddle Shack. A hike was lead by Ray Wittkop. Free raffles were held with prizes from the various groups. Free refreshments were provided. Club store closed remaining items sold at a discount. In future club items will be pre-sold only. Membership Special for Club Day -new and renewing members $5 off their membership. 125 people attended Received $800 in new and renewing Memberships. Good location and good parking. Plans for next year. Budget $1,000 allotted, spent $1,573. Thank you to Paul Serdiuk and everyone that helped out.

2009 June

Dennis Hull, head of trail maintenance for many years, resigns.

2009 July

Joe Trujillo, past President, long time Activities Coordinator, creator of Trekker and for many years in charge of mailing, passed away. Norm Lucas and Bill Schmitt retire as hiking leaders. They have led over 300 hikes in the last 15 years

2009 October

Insurance will not allow club to use the brush trimmer. Suggest trimmer to be sold. Fran Katella presented a trip to Alaska. Information on this trip will be placed on the web site.

2010 January

Total Mebership 1,139 Tom, Neigel, President Over 579 trip run for 2014 Alcohol Restrictions - insurance does not cover club if we pay for the alcohol i.e. in the cost of a trip.

2010 February

Face Book - Tom Neigel will continue to check on the Face Book page. It will be used as a publicity attempt

2010 April

New website created by Tom Neigel. Frank Pearce webmaster. Club runs 400 + hikes a year. attended by 3,000 hikers total of 20,000 miles.

2010 August

New policy for Sign-in sheets for Multi-club activities. On OCSJ activities which are join ventures with another club or clubs, all participants must sign the OCSJ waiver and sign-in sheet if the OCSJ leader is also the leader for the other club(s). If there is a separate designated leader present from the other club(s), then OCSJ members and guests will sign the OCSJ sign-in sheet and members of the other club(s) will sign their own sheets.

2010 September

Awards Dinner at Empire Buffet Restaurant Saturday. Ray Wittkop in charge. NY bus trip has been cancelled. Not enough people enrolled.

2010 October

A Symposium, held at Whitesbog, will have a presentation by Millicent Moore on Elizabeth Coleman White. Fran Katella will run the bus trip to Washington DC. Trip will be held Sat May 7th OCSJ paid their NJ and Federal taxes.

2010 November

Google contact lists too difficult. Motion to subscribe to Constant Contact approved.

2010 December

Gift wrapping at LL Bean. $200 raised given to Club. Guest Policy approved. OCSJ is open to and welcomes guests and prospective members. If you like our activities and wish to continue participating, we request that you join, as it does cost money to operate the club and provide the wealth of outdoor activities we do.

2011 January

Total membership 1045 Tom Neigel, President Picnics in the park update- Trailer needed to move boats from one area to the other. Sign in sheets will need to be used for insurance purposes.

2011 February

A 3 month free coupon will be placed in the Constant Contact Newsletter which won’t expire for 6 months. The offer will be stressed at the picnic.

2011 March

Insurance is effective for the picnic as per Frank Pearce’s call to the Company

2011 April

Club Picnic at Parvin SP –All activities represented. Videos added to website.

May 2011 Club has Pizza Party in lieu of meeting. / Joe Trujillo Plaque Dedication at Bass River SF

2011 June Cape May Event at Chalfonte. tradition continues. OCSJ MS-Riders team with Remax

2011 August

First use of Meetup by the Hiking Section. Testing started in July

2011 September

After extreme flooding Batso was still closed. Water is too high and dangerous to paddle.

2011 Oct. First use of Meetup by Canoeing. Bicycling at Club Picnic listed on Meetup –no Bicycling meetup site.

2012 January

Membership 950 Bruce Steidel, President

2012 February

An e-mail was received from the President of Batona Hiking Club reference trail maintenance of Batona trail from Batsto to Carranza Memorial. Turn over to OCSJ. The Batona Club appreciates the offer and agrees to the transfer.

2012 March

OCSJ has Booth for first time at Paddlesport. Frank and Kathleen Pearce lead staffing.

2012 OCSJ members complete the reroute of the Batona trail thru the Franklin Parker Preserve.

2012 April A Club picnic was held at Pakim Pond.

2012 May Members Rosemarie Mason & Jack Dalton do the ribbon cutting” of the “new” last 2 ½ miles of the Batona at Bass River on the sections 25 th. Anniversary.

2012 June

June 11, 2012 Bert Nixdorf passed away He was co-founder of the Outdoor Club of South Jersey, serving as its president for 11 years and as trips chairman for 14 years. In 1964, he published Let's Go and See - Day Trips in New Jersey and Southeastern PA for Families, School and Youth Groups. In 1976, he produced Hikes and Bike Rides in New Jersey and in 1983, Bike Rides in New Jersey.

2012 September

PayPal used for first time.

2012 December

Nora Hayes, wife of OCSJ founding member Walter Hayes, donates $250,000 to the New Jersey Conservancy

2013 Jan. Total membership 908 Bruce Steidel, President Over past 10 years membership has dropped from 1900 to 900. Most clubs experiencing similar declines. Recommend more publicity and more photos on websites. Cycling joins Hiking and Canoeing using Meetup. Chris Denneler’s First Day Hike as part of a National Program had 60 hikers. Burlington County Times took photographs.

2013 Feb. It looks like the state parks will be charging a $12 launch fee from Memorial Day till Labor Day at Kingwood, Bull’s Island and Crawley’s Landing.

2013 March

Eric Speicker had signs printed for leaders to put in their car windows to identify OCSJ Activity Nineteen people showed up for trail maintenance of the Batona Trail on March 9.

2013 April Biking- Rider training and Skills Clinic May 11 cohosted with Team Evesham.

2013 May Spring Picnic was well attended. Weather was great. Kayak, canoe demo was good. Maybe we should plan an October picnic

2013 June Leaders’ Dinner will be Sept 21, 2013 at Due Amici’s Restaurant. Appreciation Gift will be a polo shirt. Skiing-Après ski party was a success.

2013 December

Christmas/Holiday Party-84 people attended. 31 of those used Pay Pal. The holiday party had a low attendance but went well. Thank You to Frank and Kathleen Pearce for the Holiday party. Thank you to Joe Money for the center pieces. Not all comments about new DJ’s music selections were favorable. Review one more year. He needs to ask for requests. Questionnaire will be sent to the attendees for their opinions.

2014 January

Members 1000

Bob DiMarco, President Spring picnic will be held at Pakim Pond on April 26th.

Discussed Free one year membership for board members and

trustees who meet qualifications of leading a certain amount of trips

(skiing 1, canoeing 3, biking, hiking 6 backpacking/camping 2 and

turning in all sign in sheets or Board members attending 7 board

meetings. Effective Jan 2015 for previous year.

2014 February

Questions have been raised reference safety for participants if dry

suits aren’t worn in cold weather if water is below 60 degrees. Club

needs to adopt a policy.

David Bicking is organizer of all three groups of meet up. Chairs

have full access.

2014 March

Use of Club Funds-Policy for awarding 1 year membership

extension to officers, board members and leaders was voted.

The policy passed with a vote of 7 for and 3 opposed. B.

Financial Audit-Diane Ewell finished the audit of the Outdoor Club

of South Jersey for the fiscal year October 1, 2012 thru September

30, 2013. “It is her opinion that the information presented is correct,

free of any misstatements and in accordance with standard

accounting practice." The only area of a possible problem is when

someone other than the treasurer would collect and distribute funds.

Cold weather paddling-There was a suggestion to put on Meet Up

no inexperienced paddlers until the water warms up. The decision is

left up to Frank.

Jean S resigned from the board as Secretary of Membership as of

3/13/2014

2014 April

Reviewed current Policy for awarding 1 year membership extension

to officers and the posting of earned memberships. All agreed with

posting of leaders memberships each quarter to the membership

master list.

Diane Ewell has volunteered to be membership secretary.

Picnic held in April. Approximately 110 attended. Good time had by

all. Canoes and kayaks were available to try. Thanks to many

volunteers- Joe Money, Diane Ewell, Jay Schoss, David Bicking,

Ken and Nora Kolano, Kathy and Frank Pearce. Rosemary Mason

volunteered to help organize the picnic next year. Pakim Pond is

good location.

2014 May

Non OCSJ rides are not to be posted on OCSJ Meetup site except

for charity rides.

Membership cards will no longer be sent out. Welcome letter may

be sent to new members or E-mail or post card notes.

2014 July

Phil Iapalucci, a long time active backpack leader passed away.

A member must do 3 trail maintenance outings a year for a free

membership award.

2014 September

Welcome letter, renewal letter and complimentary letter to be used

for membership notices.

Café Press to be used for merchandise sales.

Leaders Dinner will be Sept 20 at Due Amici in Cinnaminson

2014 October

General Membership meeting Oct 9 shall begin at 7 pm at Vitarelli’s

Fall Picnic –Oct 11 – Smithville Woods- 10 am-2pm.

2014 November

Wet or Dry Suits required from November 1 to April 1. Flexibility

allowed for good weather. Must contact paddling chair for release

from requirement.

2014 December

South Jersey magazine may interview Joe Hummel as a senior hike leader. Holiday party only brought one new member, generally the same group of people. Fran made no deposit for next year. Food and entertainment decline, as well as non-committal membership reasons for unsuccessful event. Picnics are much more successful. Discussion needs to be on January agenda.

2015 January

Members 874.

Bob DiMarco, President Special Trip or Event Organizers may receive a complementary

membership extension as determined by the board. Fran Katella

would qualify. Organizer of Washington DC trip.

The board is investigating option of stopping Trekker. Sept would be

the earliest decision could be put in place. Less than 200 now pay

for the Trekker. 400 are needed to cover printing charges. Other

formats are being considered such as a PDF on line. David Bicking

will work on converting meet up file format. More review needed.

Sierra Magazine Jan –Mar issue has an article on the state wide

trail. State has given approval for blazing using blue. Frank Pearce

has been working on the state wide trail issues.

Holiday Party discontinued.

55 attend New Year’s day Hike

2015 March

Only one year renewals are available since Trekker is to be

discontinued. Info on Pay Pal is also changed. Spring 2017 is last

issue for the Trekker.

On the vote reference eliminating the Trekker-2 people opposed.

Jersey Paddler’s Paddlesport weekend was great. OCSJ had a

good spot.

Annual Hot Dog hike drew large group. Thank You to Chris

Denneler & Pat Burton

2015 April

Paddle leaders will be contacted about requirements for safety talks etc. Motion approved-If leader does not have a wet suit they may not lead in cold weather. Leaders may not allow participants to go on trip without proper gear. Picnic- at Pakim Pond –Good turnout of about 75.

2015 June

Fall Picnic to be discontinued. Joint trips with other groups are ok as long as everyone signs in. -Madeleine Doherty Speaker on Ireland Hiking.

2015 August

$100 memoriam per year will be given to Pine Barrens Restoration Fund. Other organization links on the OCSJ website was discussed. If OCSJ is participating, a link is okay. It has to be a "sign in sheet" event.

2015 September

Paddling in cold weather Policy as approved by board will be: During months of Nov. thru March paddlers must wear wet or dry suits subject to approval of leaders. Mike & Allison Baker lead their final Friday Night fitness hike.

2015 October

Article 4 needs to be changed to allow for Vice President to not move up to President. Motion for article 4 to be changed to allow a vote for presidential positon if Vice President does not wish to advance. Approved Elections held with one person on slate for each position. All elected as follows

Over 405 activities for 2015