CLUB HISTORY
This Page has Every Trip listed starting from 2003
HOW THIS CLUB STARTED
Mr. Shepardson, a middle school teacher, started an outdoor club known as the Outing Club at Lenox Middle and High School in the year 2003. Once it was started he had Mr. Sanders, another middle school teacher, help out. Mr.Shepardson started this club because he thought that it might be a good idea to start a club that would get middle school students in the outdoors doing outdoor activities and learning about nature. Year 1 was the trial run for the club which only allowed eighth graders. A Student and a assistant to Mr. Shepardson named Dan Lane looked in year books before the year 2003 and surprisingly this is the first out door club to ever take place at Lenox Middle and High School.
YEAR 1, 2003 & 2004
In early October of 2003 the Outing Club took its very first trip, canoeing down the Housatonic River. We started at Decker’s Launching Pad on New Lenox Road in Lenox and canoed to Woods Pond in Lenox Dale. On this trip we saw much nature, like birds and beavers. We also saw a lot of garbage in the river which gave Mr. Shepardson and Mr. Sanders an idea to do a Housatonic River garbage trip to clean up the garbage in the river. Members that went on this trip were Dan Lane, Kevin Turner, Eric Kirby, Kyle Huber, Riley Cook and Eric Trancynger and the Staff were Mr. Shepardson and Mr. Sanders
Our second trip in October of the same year was a river clean up trip. During our clean up we found a gas tank, flat screen TV, footballs, food containers, beer bottles and much more stuff. This was the worst trip of the school year because a lot of the boys were not doing what they were told. A lot of them fell in the river and two boys were on the side of the river bank and the canoe started to float away from the river bank. Everyone in the club laughed including those two boys. So I had to get there canoe back to them. Members that went on this trip were Dan Lane, Kevin Turner, Tony Valone, Eric Trancynger, Kyle Huber, and Eric Kirby and Erica Prentice and the staff are Mr. Shepardson and Mr. Sanders.
The third trip, in November of the same year, was an October Mountain hike. The purpose of this trip was to act out the history of the Tory Cave. The cave got its name from a man who sided with the Tories, American colonists who sided with England during the American Revolution. Gideon Smith, a Tory, hid in the cave to get away from his neighbors who supported the Revolution.This trip to Tory Cave, located off Roaring Brook Road in Lenox, consisted of 8th graders. Michael Lane, an 8th grader, came on this trip to film it and took photos of our little play and about Tories Cave and the British and Tories. Members that went are Dan Lane, Kevin Turner, Tony Valone, Eric Trancynger and Kyle Huber. The staff that went are Mr. Shepardson and Mr. Sanders.
Our forth trip was at the end of November 2003 and it was our seconded October Mountain hike and this time we hiked up to a spot where we had started a camp fire and roasted marshmallows and hot dogs. On this trip we had a little accident because one of the boys were acing up and decided to play with fire and set an area on fire and we had to put it out immediately. Members that went are Dan Lane, Tony Valone, Kyle Huber, Bob Fuore, and Nico Johnson. staff that went Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders
Our fifth trip was in January 2004 and it was our first Kennedy park dog walk trip. This trip the students were allowed to bring there dogs and walks them around the trails. Our meeting spot was at the Lenox House Country Shops. We then hiked up to the Gazebo in Kennedy Park and after that we spent time walking the trails of Kennedy Park. Members that went were Dan Lane, Kevin Turner, Tony Valone, Kyle Huber, Eric Kirby and Eric Trancynger. Staff that went on this trip Mr. Shepardson Mr. Sanders.
Our sixth trip and last one of the school year was our camping trip. This one was interesting because we were so disorganized. We had to drink out of bowls because we forgot the cups, and we ran out of plates and so we had to use the same plates for meal after meal, and we were drinking coffee and hot chocolate out of paper cups and they were melting so we had to put two under the one that we were drinking out of, Some of the students were not behaving and were yelled at, some of the food had to be remade because it was burned and someone forgot the worms for fishing so we had to dig for them in the ground and that was awful. At night we stated a camp fire and sat around and after that we went in our tents and went to sleep. The next morning we all woke up and had breakfast and packed up and that was the end of the year one Outing Club. Members that went Dan Lane, Kevin Turner, Tony Valone, Eric Trancynger, Eric Kirby and Kyle Huber. Staff that went were M. Shepardson and Mr. Sanders.
YEAR 2, 2004 & 2005
The seconded year in October 2004 the Outing Club started with two new permanent directors Dan Lane and Mrs. Bedichek. Mr. Noble and Mrs. Farris joined for one trip only. Dan Lane, a ninth grader, was asked by Mr. Shepardson to be an advisor, which he accepted. Mrs. Bedichek, A seventh grade teacher was also asked to be an advisor. So the 2004 Outing Club had four advisors named, Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, Dan Lane, and Mrs. Bedichek. We also Opened it up to 7th graders. Also Dan built a small web site for the Outing Club
In October 2004 we had our third canoe trip. This year’s group of students was much better because they followed directions and they were much better at canoeing. It started the same way as last’ years trip. We started at Decker’s Launching Pad and ended up at woods pond. Members that went were Jaime Labier, Nicole Pandell, Alex Moorhead, Ingrid Salazar, Dane McDaniel, and Nick Bertelli. Staff that went Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, Dan Lane, Mrs. Bedichek and Mr. Farris.
In October 2004 we had our fourth canoe trip but this one was another river clean up. This time we found foot balls, flat screen TV’s, pair of shoes. This one was really cold. No one fell in and I think we got much more garbage than we did in year one. We got one whole section cleaned and it just looked very good. Members that went Nicole Pandell, Ali Flynn, Nick Bertelli, Andrew Levesque, Dane McDaniel, Ingrid Salazar and Alex Morehead. Staff that went Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, Dan Lane, Mrs. Bedichek, and Mr. Noble.
In November 2004 we had an October Mountain Hike. We all met at St. Helena’s Chapel and from there Mr. Shepardson and Mr. Sanders and Mrs. Bedichek transported us to October Mountain. Once we got there we hiked up to a spot where we started a camp fire and roasted marshmallows and hot dogs. The group had a really good time. Parts of the trails were really hard because parts of it were really steep hills and the other thing is that we had to sometimes walk in water or walk on stones to get to the other side. Members that went were Jaime Labier, Nicole Pandell, Ingrid Salazar, Alex Morehead, Andrew Levesque, Mark Zink and Nick Bertelli. Staff that went were- Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, Dan Lane and Mrs. Bedichek.
In November 2004 the Outing Club took a trip to Kennedy Park. Just like last year’s Kennedy Park we allowed students to bring there own dogs. We started at a new meeting place. Instead of starting at The Lenox house Country Shops we met at the Kennedy Park parking lot that is located on West Mountain Road. We then hiked from there to an over look and a Gazebo. After that we walked up a hard trail called Hemlock. Hemlock Trail is actually the hardest trail in Kennedy Park. The worst thing about it was that we walked up it in the winter time when there was a lot of snow on it. Members that went were Jaime Labier, Nicole Pandell, Nick Bertelli, Andrew Levesque, Alex Morehead, Ingrid Salazar and Mark Zink. Staff that went- Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, and Dan Lane.
In April 2005 the Outing Club went to Farnam Dam and picked up garbage along side the dirt road. We met at St Helena’s Chapel on New Lenox Road. This trip had to end ½ hour early because one of the kids got cut by glass because they were not following rules. At the end of this trip we all went back to the church. Once back there Mrs. Bedichek and Dan Lane went to Arizona Pizza and brought back two boxes of pizzas for lunch. Members that went on this trip were Jaime Labier, Nicole Pandell, Ingrid Salazar, Nick Bertelli, Alex Morehead, and Andrew Levesque. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, Dan Lane, and Mrs. Bedichek
In June 2005 the Outing Club had a camping trip in the woods of October Mountain and this was our last trip of the school year. This camping trip went much more smoothly because I organized everything this time. People were following directions and Mr. Shepardson broke Mr. Noble’s tent pole. This year there was a spot in the brook where the water was deep enough for people to swim around. At night we all sat around the fire and after that we went to bed. In the morning we woke up, ate breakfast, and packed up, and went fishing. At 11:00 AM we left. Members that went- Jaime Labier, Nicole Pandell, Alex Morehead, Andrew Levesque, and Nick Bertelli. Staff that went on this trip were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, Dan Lane, and Mrs. Bedichek
YEAR 3, 2005 & 2006
The Third year of the Outing Club was different because we lost Mrs. Bedichek and we lost the camping trip due to a staff conflict. Dan Lane continued as a staff member. He also became supply manager and one of the trip coordinators. We started off with one new trip. This year was not really an interesting year at all and the staff would have to say that this year’s club was not the best because most of our trips only had three kids.
In October 2005 the Outing Club went to Monument Mountain. This was not a dog walk trip because the trails were steep and hard to navigate. We started from the bottom of the mountain and worked our way up to the top. Once we got up to the top we took a brake and enjoyed the view. Then we went back to the cars. Members that went on this trip- Milton Jewell, Jesse Robins, and Nicole Pandell. Staff that went- Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, and Dan Lane.
In October 2005 the Outing Club took a canoe trip on the Housatonic River. This trip was not really fun because we only had two students and it was raining and very muddy. This day was also cold and foggy. We started from Decker’s Launching Pad on New Lenox RD and paddled up stream for 2 hours then we headed back. Members that went Jesse Robins and Nicole Pandell. Staff that went Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, and Dan Lane.
On November 2005 the Outing Club went for a hike on October Mountain. We met at ST. Helena’s Chapel on New Lenox Road then we were transported over by Mr. Shepardson and Mr. Sanders. Once we got there we started to hike the trails. We stopped along side a famous cave called Tory Cave. We then hiked up to a spot where we started a camp fire and roasted hot dogs and marshmallows. We also had a behavior issue on that trip. After that we all put the fire then headed back to the cars. Members that went are- Milton Jewell, Jesse Robins, and Nicole Pandell. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, and Dan Lane
On January, March, April, and May the Outing Club took a lot of Kennedy Park dog walk trips. These trips are what made this club lose a lot of kids and also kids were busy with sports and other things. We met at the Kennedy Park parking lot that is located on West Mountain Road. We then hike from there to an over look and a gazebo. After that we walked up a hard trail called Hemlock. Hemlock Trail is actually the hardest trail in Kennedy Park. The worst thing about it was that we walked up it in the winter time when there was a lot of snow on it. But we still had a great time. Members that went on this trip are Blake Poore, Liz Wilkerson, Maggie Mitts, Sarah Novotanay, Rachel Dimouro Breana Staszowski, Kristin Heath, Beca Carberry, Katie Connell Sarah Clifford, Milton Jewell and Nicole Pandell. Staff that went Mr.Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, and Dan Lane
Instead of going to Kennedy Park we went hiking on the Fire tower. The first Fire Tower trip was not fun at all because it was raining and a dog got stuck in the mud and there was only one person on that trip. The seconded was OK but not the best. This time there was no rain. It was a cloudy day and the trails were full of mud. There were a lot of puddles and one of the dogs got hit by a porcupine. Members that went on these two trips are Sarah Clifford and Maggie Mitts. Staff that went Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, and Dan Lane
YEAR 4, 2006 & 2007
This Year was the best year out of all of the other years despite that we did not have the camping trip. It was so great because this was the first year that we have had more students than we ever had before except for one trip this year. Dan Lane became the Assistant Club Director and the Outing Club got a new web site in Early December. This year we opened the club to all students in middle school. The club also got a brand new web site.
On September 23 2006 the Outing Club had its very first bike trip. Everyone met at Woods Pond in Lenox Dale. Then we road our bikes through Roaring Brook Road. We finally came to a spring where students could drink out of. We then came to a trail head where a famous cave named Tory Cave was. Then after that we rode all the way to St.Helena’s Chapel where students got picked up. The road was very muddy and there were a lot of hills and a lot of bumps in the road. This was a very cloudy day and it was cold but over all everyone had a great time. The Members that went on this trip were Patrick Conlon, C.J Meczywor, Lauren Bartini, Michael Lomaglio, Andrew Woodger, Robert Navarino, and Tristan Vaber. Staff that went were Mr.Shepardson Mr. Sanders, Dan Lane, and Mr. Noble
On October 4th 2006 the Outing Club had a dog walk trip at Kennedy Park. We met at the Kennedy Park parking lot on West Mountain Road. We hiked to an overlook and then to a gazebo. This trip was interesting because everywhere we went on the trails we ran into horses. So we had to get over to a side and hold on to the dogs. On the way back two boys named Patrick Conlon and C.J Meczywor were teasing me about dating a girl and I was about to throw them both in the brook on the side of the trail. We passed by an old burned down hotel named Shadow Brook on the way to a nice overlook. We call it an over look because it has a view of Richmond. The Members that went on this trip were Patrick Conlon, C.J Meczywor, Lauren Bartini, Jeffery Kane, Amy Kane, Ryan Schwendenmann, Rachel Dimouro and Ellana Kelsey. The Staff that went were Mr.Shepardson, Mr. Sanders and Dan Lane.
On Saturday October 21 2006 the Outing Club had a canoe trip down the Housatonic River to Woods Pond. We all met a Decker’s launching Pad on New Lenox Road. The water was so high that the sides of the river banks were under water and the water was just barley touching the launching pad. This day was really cold and it was around 10:00 Am in the Morning. I arrived at the pad with three kayaks. Once we were going down the river two students behind me decided to throw water at them selves and Mr. Shepardson and I yelled at them for that. The Members that went were on this trip were Patrick Conlon, Lior Gazit, Nick Reynolds, Rachel Dimouro, Austin Salnitis Sara Clifford, Nicole Decker, Emma Huber, Lauren Bartini and Halle Macdonald. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders and Dan Lane.
On Saturday November 4th 2006 the Outing Club had its October Mountain hike. We hiked up to a spot where we started a nice camp fire and roasted marshmallows and hot dogs. This trip had a lot of kids in it. On this day it was really cold. On the way back some of the Students were playing too rough and one of them got hurt. We tried to go into Tory but we could not because the rocks leading to the cave were two slippery. Members that went are Keegan Kelly, C.J Meczywor, Mat Quetti, Tristan Vaber, Spencer Wallace, Josh King, Robert Navarino, Harrison Gregg, Lior Gazit, Rachel Dimouro, Lauren Bartini, Sarah Warren, Cassie Byrnes, Cody Labier, Ryan Schwendenmann and Amy Kane. Staff that went on this trip Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, and Dan Lane.
On Saturday December 9th 2006 the Outing Club had its Seconded Kennedy Park dog walk trip. In this hike we tried some new trails. This trip was a little bit different because most of the students were new to this club and there were only 3 recant students. This was also a cold day because unlike the other trips there was snow on the ground. We hiked up to a nice overlook that overlooks Richmond Massachusetts. We then took a different trail that we had never took before up to the gazebo. After that we went back to the spot where the parents picked up there students. Members that went are- Max Dakin, Connor O’Brien, Lior Gazit, Lauren Bartini, Liz Wilkerson, Breana Staszowski, Alexia Bowden, Leal carter, Harrison Gregg, and Amy Kane. Staff that went are- Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, Dan Lane and Mrs. Fraser.
On Saturday April 28th the Outing Club had its last Kennedy Park. This trip we only had two students because Mr. Sanders was not able to hand out the permission slips and because this was our third Kennedy Park Trip. On this trip was went on a variety of trails and the worst part was one the trails was destroyed when a construction group tore it down to build condos but we had a great time. There was one student that I have not seen since the canoe trip in October and it was really good to see him again. Members that went on this trip were Patrick Conlon and Ryan Schwendenmann. Staff that went on this trip are Mr. Shepardson and Dan Lane.
On Thursday June 7th the Outing Club had an after school bike trip on Roaring Brook Road. We started from Lenox Memorial Middle and High School at 3:00 pm this was also our last one of the school year. We had a great time on this trip. This time the sun was out and it was a hot day. We also stopped at Tory Cave to see it, and pick up was at St.Helena’s Chapel at 4:15 Pm. Members that went on this trip were Patrick Conlon, Andrew Woodger, and Robert Navarino. Staff that went on this trip were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, and Dan Lane.
YEAR 5, 2007 & 2008
This year we have added a new bike trip called West Mountain Road Biking. Again we did not have the camping trip this school year but we hope to have it back next year. We would like to welcome Mr. Knodler and Mrs. Salvie as new teachers to the club as advisor helpers.
On Saturday September 22nd 2007 The Outing Club had a bike trip on West Mountain Road. We started from Arizona Pizza and from there we road our bikes on West Mountain and took a few other backs roads. We ended up at Betty’s Pizza for lunch. It was a nice day outside and the sun was shining and over all everyone had a great time. Members that went on this trip were Patrick Conlon, C.J Meczywor, Ryan Schwendenmann, Andrew Woodger, Austin Salnitis, Eric Lomaglio, Ryan Hurley, John Hurley, Robert Navarino, Harrison Gregg, and Sean O’Brien. Staff that went on this trip were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders and Dan Lane
On Saturday October 20th the Outing Club had a canoe trip down the Housatonic River. It was a nice day and not as cold as last year the students enjoyed it and we only had about 6 students that went. Half way down the river we stopped paddling to listen to the nature but other than that we all had a great time. Members that went were Patrick Conlon, Max Dakin, Adina Friedman, Christina Sample, Kyle Marcantel, and Dani Clifford . Staff that went on this trip were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, and Dan Lane.
On Saturday November 3rd the Outing Club had a dog walk to Kennedy Park. This day was really cold and not many showed up. We went on a trail that was basically the hardest one in Kennedy Park. We also hiked to a spot that overlooked Richmond where we took a break and then we hiked back to the parking lot and everyone had a great Time. Members that went were Geoffrey Carter, Eric Lomaglio, Kyle Marcantel, Cam Marcantel, Charlotte Freifeld, Avi Sternberg, Emily Ellis, Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, Dan Lane and Mrs. Fraser
On Sunday November 18th the Outing Club had its last trip of the season. We went for a hike on October Mountain and once we got to a spot we roasted hot dogs and marshmallows over a small camp fire. We also visited Tory Cave and everyone that went had a great time coming. Staff that came Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, Dan Lane, and Mrs. Salvie. Members that went Patrick Conlon, Max Dakin, Harry Hale, Christina Sample, Andrew Woodger Devon Alden, Liz Barry, Kristen Read, Emily Halford, Ryan Swendenmann, and Mat Salvie a special Guest.
On Sunday March 2nd 2008 the Outing Club had a winter hike up October Mountain; this was a really cold day. We did the same thing as the last October Mountain trip but this time we took a different trail that leads circular around October Mountain. Starting a campfire was much easier than we thought. The hike was hard even though we were on snow shoes there was a lot of snow and ice sinking into our boots but other than that everyone had a great time. Members that went Max Dakin, Logan Finn, Ben Macdonald, Jon Hurley and Ryan Hurley. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson, Dan Lane, and Mr. Knodler.
On Saturday May 17th the Outing Club had a clean up on Roaring Brook Road. This was also our last trip of the school year. This was also a town clean up so the town was also helping us at times. We found a lot of trash and all of us thought that it was terrible to see this much trash lying around. It was also a nice warm day. We started off at Mr. Shepardson grandmother’s house on Roaring Brook Road and we also ended up there and had pizza for lunch. So everyone had a great time. Staff that went are Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, Dan Lane and Mr. Noble. Members that went Tristan Vaber, Robert Navarino, Sara Warren, Ryan Schwendenmann, and Amy Cane.
YEAR 6, 2008 & 2009
This Year Dan Lane has got a position in this club as Co. Director and still remains as the web site maintainer. But other than that the staff still remains the same. The camping trip had to be canceled this year.
On Saturday September 20th 2008 the Outing Club had a bike ride. We road the back roads of Under Mountain Road, Reservoir Road, and West Mountain. We road all the way to Arizona Pizza where we ate lunch. There were a lot of hills and at times a few students were struggling, but other than that the weather was perfect and everyone had a great time. Staff that went Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, and Dan Lane. Members that went were Patrick Conlon, David Conlon, Ryan Schwendenmann, Devon Alden, Billy Nutbrown, Chris Zaffanella, Dillon Benham, Cam Marcantel, and Kyle Marcantel.
On Saturday October 11th the Outing Club had a canoe trip down the Housatonic River. The club Started at Decker’s Launching Pad on New Lenox Road and paddled down the river to Woods Pond Lenox Dale. This day was a perfect day for weather the sun was shining, people we enjoying the trip and we did not see any nature like we normally do. Towards the end of the river entering Woods Pond the wind began to pick up and the current was strong and paddling to the pick up area was hard due to the strong current. Other than that everyone had a great time. Members that went were Patrick Conlon, David Conlon, Cam Sibley, Devon Alden, Ryan Schwendenmann, Cam Marcantel, Kyle Marcantel, John Godchildren, Garry Vaidya, Charlote Canillane, Tori Dakin, and Maty Shepardson. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders and Dan Lane
On Saturday November 8th the Outing Club went for a hike at Kennedy Park. On this trip students were allowed to bring their own dogs to walk. The weather on this trip was very unpredictable because some of us thought that it was going to rain. The group started from the Kennedy Park Parking lot on West Dougway Road and hiked a bunch of trails. One of them took us to an old historical hotel that burned down and the other took us to a nice over look that over looks Richmond. Staff that Went Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, and Dan Lane. Members that went John Gochenaur, Lindsey Kelly, Tori Dakin, Maty Shepardson, Cam & Kyle Marcantel, Julia King. Mr. Noble who was a retired school adjustment counselor who worked at our school last year came. Also Ryan Schwendenmann’s mom came as a guest on this trip.
On Saturday November 22nd the club went for a hike up October Mountain. We tried to go to Tory Cave but the rock leading to the cave were all iced over so we could not do it. After that we hiked up to a camp fire pit and then we started a camp fire and roasted hot dogs and marshmallows. The group did not have a hard time starting the fire but once it was started the staff were constantly asking the students to get more wood. Also at the end of the trip Mr. Shepardson took us into a cemetery on New Lenox Road because some of his relatives were berried there and he wanted to share some history with us about his relatives. This day was really cold and some of the students were having a difficult time with the weather. But other than that everyone had a great time. Staff that went Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, and Dan Lane. Members that Went were John Gochenaur, Miles Briggs, Tori Dakin, Ryan Schwendenmann, Cam & Kyle Marcantel, Garry Vaidya, Charlote Canillane, and Makayla White.
On Saturday May 2nd 2009 the Outing Club had its second Kennedy Park trip. Mr. Sanders was not on this trip. We started from the parking lot on West Dougway Road and hiked up a few trails. Finally we got to an over look and took a break there. There was one sixth grader named Carter that climbed a huge tree and we amazing at it. Also a middle school history teacher named Mrs. Troiano and her son Dan met us up at the over look area. The weather was good and everyone had a great time. Members that went were Carter Schiavi, Patrick Conlon, David Conlon, John Gochenaur, Maty Shepardson, Tori Dakin, Kyle and Cam Marcantel, Rachel Puntin, and Julia King. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson and Dan Lane
On Thursday June 18th the Outing Club had an after school bike trip. This was also our last trip of the school year We started at the schools bike rack and rode the back roads of Roaring Brook Road. We also visited Tory Cave. everyone had a great time. But it was raining and not the best day for a bike ride. But overall everyone had a great time. Members that went were Carter Schiavi, John Gochenaur, Cam & Kyle Marcantel and Maty Shepardson. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson Mr. Sanders Dan Lane and Al Saldarini.
YEAR 7 2009 & 2010
This Year the directors remain the same as last year. Also this year we got rid of the camping trip and added one new trip called October Mountain Felton Pond Hike. Mrs. Strong our school principal also decided to come and help out on some trips.
On Saturday September 19th, the Outing Club had a bike ride. We started from Tangle Wood and road all the way to Arizona pizza where we had lunch. The weather was really good and everyone who came had a great time. The road was a little bit steep at times. Due to that some of us had to walk our bikes up steep hills and most of the members were new to the club. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson and Dan Lane. Mrs. Strong came along and helped out. Members that went were, Carter Schiavi, Sergei Carti, Maty Shepardson, Cam Abderhalden, Patrick Colvin, Emily Czelusniak, Cami Smachetti, Nick Ubertini, Bailey Patella, Jackson Reis and Catlin Daugherty.
On Saturday, October 10th the Outing Club took a canoe trip down the Housatonic River. We started from Decker's Launching Pad on New Lenox Road and paddled down to Woods Pond in Lenox Dale. Dan Lane brought 3 Kayaks for him and two others two use. On the way down the river three people found a boat on lying on the side of the river, we also saw allot of garbage in their as well. The weather was cloudy and a little bit cold but other than that everyone had a great time. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, and Dan Lane. Members that went were, Jackson Reis, Maty Shepardson, John Gochenaur, Sergei Carti ,David Conlon, Kam Saldo, Devon Alden, Cam Marcantel, Kyle Marcantel, Emily Czelusniak, Tori Dakin, Ryan Schwendenmann, Katie Duffy, and Kayle Duffy.
On Saturday November, 7th the Outing Club had a dog walk at Kennedy Park. We started at the Kennedy Park parking lot on West Dougway Road. From there we hiked around the trails. We end up at an overlook area and a Gazebo. The weather was really good and not bad at all. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders and Dan Lane Members that went were, Tori Dakin, Maty Shepardson, Catlin Daugherty, Charlote Canillane and Cami Smachetti.
On Sunday, December 6th the Outing Club did a trial hike up to Felton Pond. Felton Pond is located on October Mountain. This hike turned out really well and many people enjoyed it. We started from Woods Pond in Lenox Dale, and hiked up a trail to Felton Pond. The trail was mostly up hill and was very challenging. On the trail the group spotted a man-made rock wall next to a waterfall. Once we got to Felton Pond, we started a campfire and roasted hot dogs and marshmallows. This was a very cold day, but other than that, the club decided that this hike was worth doing. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, and Dan Lane. Members that went were Nick Ubertini, Mat Gilbert, John Gochenaur, and Maty Shepardson.
YEAR 8 2010 & 2011
This Year we got rid of the Tangle Wood to Arizona Pizza biking. The Club directors are still the same. At the end of this school year, the Outing Club got this new web site and Dan Lane still remains as its web master.
On Saturday September 18th the Outing Club had a bike ride on Roaring Brook Road. We started from our school and road down to Woods Pond and over the foot bridge. We continued riding on Roaring Brook Road. The group then stopped at Tory Cave and finally got a chance to go inside it and they like it very much. Then we continued riding to St.Heleanas Chapel where pick up took place. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, and Dan Lane
On Saturday October 2nd the Outing Club had a canoe trip down the Housatonic River. The river was very high because it rained for 2 days so it was a little but hard to maneuver. The group had tons of fun and it was awesome weather. Dan Lane brought his three kayaks for students to use. We ended at the Woods Pond Foot Bridge in Lenox Dale. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, and Dan Lane. AL Saldarini also came along and brought a two kayaks as well.
On a Saturday in October the Outing Club took a hike to Kennedy Park. We started from the parking lot on West Dougway Road and hiked up to a beautiful overlook. The overlook overlooks Richmond. Students did get to bring their dogs on this trip. Over all everyone had a great time. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders & Dan Lane.
On Sunday November 7th the Outing Club hiked up to Felton Pond located on October Mountain. The group started from the Woods Pond Foot Bridge in Lenox Dale and walk alongside Roaring Brook Road. Then from that road we took a trail called Gorge Trail up to Felton Pond. When we got there we started a small campfire and roasted hot dogs and marshmallows. Then at the end the students and staff put the fire out. This time we walked down a road instead of the trail which took us less time. All students that went on this trip had a great time. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, and Dan Lane.
YEAR 9 2011 & 2012
Dan Lane this year falls back to Assistant Club Director and remains as the Outing Club Web Master. And Everything is pretty much the same as last year. This year so far is turning out to be a great year we are getting more students on trips than we ever had before.
on Saturday September 17th the Outing Club started off its 9th year with a bike ride. The club started from Woods Pond in Lenox Dale and road the back roads of Roaring Brook Road to St.Heleanas Chapel on New Lenox Road. On the way to the church we stopped and hiked up to Tory Cave, We could not get across the brook to go into the cave because the rocks were too slippery for walking on. Also while ridding the road from all of the storms we had this summer, the road was completely washed out in spots a few spots were so bad that we had to get off our bikes and walk them until the bad parts we past us. The weather was good and everyone has a great time. Students that went are Andrew Conlon, Isabelle Conlon, Zach Senical, Karley Deets, Sean Coakley, Katie Arthur, Nick Montelleone, Brenna Nopper, Anna Lynch. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson Mr. Sanders & Dan Lane.
On Sunday October 2nd the Outing Club had a canoe trip down the Housatonic River. As usual we started from Decker's Launching Pad on New Lenox Road and paddled down to Woods Pond in Lenox Dale. The river was very high today from all of the rain we had this summer. it was so high that the water was flooding over banks of the river, also for the first time, we had more kayaks than canoes this year. Also because the river was so high and the current was so fast, it was hard to stop paddling because every time we stopped, the boats just kept on going. The weather was suppose to be rain but we were in luck and had sunny skies and the group had a great time. Students that went were Andrew Conlon, Isabella Conlon, Katie Arthur, Karley Deets, Zack Senecal, Zack Zurrin, Jessica Zamboini, Peggy Yee, Brittany Arseneau, Kristin Parkinson, Ben Collins, Bridget Collins, Zack Zurrin Ella King. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, & Dan Lane.
On Sunday October 16th the Outing Club had a dog walk at Kennedy Park. The club started from the Kennedy Park Parking lot on West Dougway Road. From there the students walked their dogs up to an overlook area. Once we got there, we rested for a few minutes, then we hiked to the gazebo. After that, we hiked back to the parking lot on West Dougway Road, the group had a great time. This year overlook had been changed a little bit. A concrete monument had been built and a fire pit as well. This was also the best dog walk we ever had because of the amount of students, which was 19, and thats the most we have ever had on a dog walk trip. Students that went were Zack Zurrin, Zack Senecal, Karley Deets, Ben Collins, Bridget Collins, Brenna Nopper, Molly Obrien, Evan Silverstein, Sean Coakley, Mat Gilbert, Luke Stanard, Morgan Levesque & Caleb Duffy. Staff that went on this trip were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders & Dan Lane
On Sunday November 13th the club took its Annual hike up to Felton Pond. The Club Started from Woods Pond in Lenox Dale. From the pond we walked down Roaring Brook Road until we got to a trail called Gorge Trail which we took. Once we reached the pond the group got a bunch of fire wood and then we started a camp fire and roasted hot dogs and mashmallows. We had a good hour up at the pond for students to hang out eat lunch and enjoy the trip. Everyone on the trip had a great time, and some students stated that this was a really great trip. Students that went were Evan Silverstein, Ben Collins, Bridget Collins, Noah Kalischer Coggins, Katie Arthur, Karley Deets, Zack Zurrin, Molly Obrien, Sean Coakley. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, and Dan Lane
Year 10 2012 & 2013
This year we started off our 10th Outing Club year in September 2012. Dan Lane remains in the club as the Assistant Club Director and is still the Outing Club Web Master. This was a interesting year for the Outing Club. We had a few issues that unfortunately happened this year but at least they were minor.
On Sunday September 16th the Outing Club held a bike ride. We started at Woods Pond in Lenox Dale and road the back roads of Roaring Brook Road. At one point on Roaring Brook Road, we had to stop and walk our bike down a hill because there was a section in the road that was
completely washed out. It was so washed out that the pavement was all broken up and there was a giant ditch making it impossible for cars to drive on. We stopped at a small spring along side the road to get a drink and then we continued to Tory Cave. once we got to Tory Cave we crossed Roaring Brook and then went into the cave. and Students loved it. Then we road to St. Helena's Chapel on New Lenox Road. Once we got there the church was having an outdoor picnic and invited us to join them for lunch so everyone we over and had a good lunch. Overall, this was a great trip and allot of people had a great time. Staff that went on this trip are, Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, & Dan Lane. Students that went on this trip are Ari Yantovsky, Sean Coakly, Zack Senical, Melanie, Allan, Seven Pasqua, Liam Shields, James Martrangono, John Illingworth, Jimmy J. Chassi, Nathan Petricca & Katie Arthur.
On Sunday September 30th the Outing Club took a trip on the Housatonic River. For the first time ever, we did not have canoes, most of the students, brought there canoes. It did rain a little bit. The river was very low so we did have to stay clear of branches and any other hazards in the river. We did have small incident with someone falling out of their kayak but the situation was taken care of right away. But other than that everyone had a great time. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders & Dan Lane. Students that Went on this trip were Ari Yantovsky, Liam Shields, Melanie Allan, Steven Pasqua, Nathan Petricca, Katie Arthur, Meredith Jordan, Bella Tisdale, Phoebe Carey, Max Herrick, Myah House, Hannah Fosty.
On Sunday October 14th the Outing Club had a dog walk to Kennedy Park. this trip we only had too students and just one dog. Also its was raining earlier in morning so the trails were wet. As usual we hiked from the Kennedy Park Parking lot on West Dougway road to the overlook area. Then we spent sometime there and walked back. As we were walking back to the parking lot, we went to the Kennedy Park condos area. Then We walked back to the cars. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders & Dan Lane. Students that went were Hannah Fosty & Zack Senecal.
On Sunday November 4th The Outing Club had a hike up to Felton Pond. We meet at Woods Ponds in Lenox Dale and then we walked to Gorge Trail which is located on Roaring Brook Road. Once on that trail we hiked up it until we reached Felton Pond. Once we reached the Pond students gathered up wood so we could start a bonfire and roast hot dogs and marshmallows. People did have a great time but some of the students were disrespectful which was not good. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson Mr. Sanders & Dan Lane. Students that went were Zack Senecal, Katie Arthur Ari Yantovsky, Hannah Fosty, Steven Pasqua, Julie Pehlert, Alyssa Morley, Abby Schilling, John Illingsworth, Melanie Allen, Nicoloe Gamberoni.
YEAR 11 2013 & 2014 LAST YEAR
This year we started off our 11th year in September 2012. Also due to the small incident that happened on the Housatonic River trip last year, we decided to get rid of the river trip. Also this Outing Club year was very short. Instead of doing a bunch of trips, we only did 3 trips.
On Sunday September 22nd, The club had its annual bike ride from the Woods Pond Foot Bridge in Lenox Dale, to St. Helena's Chapel on New Lenox Road. The weather turned out good and students had a great time. Also We stopped at Tory Cave and Mr. Shepardson and Dan gave a small lecture on Tory Cave. Then afterwards we road to St. Helena's Chapel where pick up took place. Mr. Sanders was not on this trip. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson and Dan Lane. Students that went were Ricky Armstrong, Nathan Petricca, Harry, Tess Walat, and Shep's son Max Shepardson also came as well.
On Sunday October 6th, The Outing Club had a dog walk at Kennedy Park. We started at the parking lot on West Dougway Road. From their we hiked up to the overlook. Unfortunately the weather was not great, it was raining, and a little bit cold. We had only one student on this trip and his mom joined us. Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders and Dan Lane.
On Sunday November 10th, The Outing Club Had a Bonfire Hike, this was also our last trip of the school year. This is a hike that last took place 5 years ago. Students Started at Roaring Brook Foot Path Trail Head which is located on the side of Roaring Brook Road and hiked up past Tory Cave. Once we got to the fire pit, students helped get fire wood and rocks so we could put them around the fire pit. Once we got the fire started, students roasted hot dogs and marshmallow. Today was a good day for a bonfire, not warm and not to cold, and students had a great time. Around 1:00 pm students hiked back to the Roaring Brook Foot Path trail head where pick up took place- Staff that went were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, Dan Lane. Students that went were Julie Pehlert ,Melanie Allan, Hanna Fosty, Maxime Leger, Ben Stevens.
YEAR 12 2021 & 2022 (The Reopening)- After Almost a decade of the outing club ending in Spring 2014. In Fall 2021 the Outing Club officially reopened again with the 3 founding Directors, Brian Shepardson, Richard Sanders, Dan Lane. Its been 8 years since the Outing Club last took place and the directors are very excited for the reopening of the Outing Club. Because we want to keep things the same we will not be changing out any of the trips or the club history.
On Saturday November 6th. The Outing Club Started back up again with its first trip in 8 years. the Club did a hike to Felton Pond. Students met at Woods Pond in Lenox Dale and walked alongside Roaring Brook Road until Reached Gorge Trail. Once Students reached gorge Trail they hiked up it until reached Felton Pond. Students also enjoyed nature and very into it. Once at Felton Pond Students gathered fire wood to start a bonfire to roast hot dogs marshmallows and sausage. it was a great day for a bonfire all had a great time. Staff that supervised this trip were Mr. Shepardson, Mr. Sanders, and Dan Lane.
On Saturday November 13th- We tried a new hike called Farnham’s Dam. Students walked up East New Lenox and enjoyed nature and the surrounding areas . First stop was a old graveyard we visited, second was a old dam half way up that students enjoyed seeing. Then about a mile and a half from the dam we reach Farnham’s Dam, Students enjoyed the view of the dam and he big water fall as well. It was a great day all enjoyed this trip. Staff that Supervised this trip were Mr. Shepardson, Mr.Sanders, Dan Lane , Mr Conuel
On Saturday November 20th The club did a Hike to Lenox Mountain Fire Tower. This was a ok hike. Students enjoyed it and learned lots of stuff about the great outdoors and survival tips the woods. Staff that Supervised this trip were Mr. Shepardson, Mr.Sanders, Dan Lane .
On Saturday December 4th the Club did its first dog walk hike of the season on Roaring Brook Road. We stared from Woods Pond in Lenox Dale and en Walked alongside Roaring Brook Road where students enjoyed the scenery and walking their dogs as well. Half way down the road students got a drink from a healthy fresh water spring. This was our first time doing a dog walk on Roaring Brook Road and students seamed to enjoy it very much. We ended at Shep's house on Roaring Brook Road. Staff that Supervised this trip were Mr. Shepardson, Mr.Sanders, Dan Lane, Mr Conuel
On Sunday December 12th The club had a Bonfire and Artifact trip to Mr. Shepardson's house, there students had metal detectors walked around the woods and tried to find buried stuff. Students found many interesting stuff such as parts to a truck and other historic metals. Students also enjoyed roasting hot dogs, marshmallows, and sausage. Over all Students had a great time. taff that Supervised this trip were Mr. Shepardson, Mr.Sanders, Dan Lane.
Year 13 2022 & 2023
The Outing Club had its first trip of the 2022/23 school year on Oct 1. We hiked up Roaring Brook and explored the historic ToryCave. A good time was had by all.