The Dick Biddle Hiking Club

December Club Update

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 17:27:00 -0500

It has been a fantastic year of hiking and camping for the Club and it is with great pleasure that I close the year out with our final update for 2010. The men’s Jay Bird swim (photo right) went off without a hitch in July which we reported in the June update. Out of respect for the privacy of our membership we ask that you not try to enlarge the photo. And if you’re in the photo please don’t try to enlarge anything in the photo. The Tree Packin’ record remains intact as no serious threats were mounted. Uncle Ben and Aunt Betty are standing tall in Cataloochee ready to take on all comers. Mountain Man Ed Oliver was last seen several months ago before the Canadian Winter set in, so he will likely emerge sometime in the Spring like a big ol’ bear waking up from hibernation. Club Olympic representative, Mike Biddle, just won the 1000 mile snow mobile race in Saskatchewan. This is part of the “Strong Man” competition and it works a little differently than most snow mobile races. In this race you’re not aloud to start the motor. You have to push the darn thing. Mike finished 18 days, three hours, 47 minutes and 13 seconds ahead of the second place finisher… some guy named Todd Palin. Palin was gracious in defeat and said that when Biddle past him all he heard was “see you at the top.”

New Recruiting Champ

You may recall that Cole Edwards won the recruiting championship several months running. Cole had a knack for recruiting young ladies into the club but when he got married to Joy earlier in the year his production came to a screechin’ halt. Several members have contended for the honor but Dandy Don Anderson (yours truly) has taken the crown home for this year. We are pleased to announce new members who were inducted at two Fall camps recently. The Peter’s family, Brad, Heather, Dalton, and Lauren endeared themselves to the Lance Drive Bear Club with Dalton’s stand-up comedy and Laurens trapeze act in a nearby hammock. The Breakfast Burritos were also a big hit. The Peters were featured in the last update. James and Kasy Hayes were inducted into the Dick Biddle Hiking Club at a recent event in section K at Elkmont Campground. I’ll tell you one thing…Mama Hayes should be extremely proud of these two disciples of Jesus Christ! We all just fell in love with James, an Air Force Flight Instructor, and his wife Kasy who was cross stitching the Air Force emblem for James’s mother “Mama Hayes”. We had a delightful time with these two and we can’t wait to see them again. James has quite a knack for the campfire tending and he worked a miracle with my old wet wood. I knew these two would become members when I checked in at the ranger shack. I told the ranger we were settin’ up on K12 and Kasy hollered “WE’RE GONNA BE NEIGHBORS!” If the future of this great nation is in the hands of young’ons like this, all I can say is we have nothing to worry about. Rounding out my recruiting coup is a great big shout out for RUSTON, LOUISIANA! Gary and Connie Acklin. Have you ever met someone and had the feeling that you’ve known them all your life? Well, that’s Gary and Connie! Talk about talent! This couple retired young and they are traveling around in a lil’ole bus. (38 ft brand new 2010 Allegro Bus custom built by Cole Edwards Grandparents! The Tiffins! I could tell you a little more about the bus but I don’t won’t to embarrass anyone. Suffice it to say that it’s fabulous. You ain’t had black berry cobbler till you’ve had Connie’s black berry cobbler and these two are a joy around a campfire. Gary has volunteered to be “Fuel Manager” for the Club and he will also serve in the welding shop. Check out his towel holder at right. If you have a problem with a backpack frame, see Gary. Gary is also known throughout Louisiana for his barbecue. Perhaps you’ve heard of the “Acklin Brisket.” Jackie Price will be very interested in meeting Gary and learning this old family technique. The beef brisket is one of the eight beef primal cuts and If I recall, Gary has something like a 5 step process to produce the most mouth watering BBQ treat you’ve ever wafted across your senses. He’s also a good knot man and he and I traded knowledge about two popular knots. He show me the bowline which he can tie with one hand and I showed him the rolling hitch which I can tie with two hands and a foot. Welcome to all the new recruits and happy hikin’ and campin’ in the years to come.

We had a ball!

The Strike Cap

The strike cap has not been seen in the last year. It may have gotten comfortable with it’s last possessor but it’s high time that it moved on. The possessor is encouraged to pass the cap and to report the recipient to the treasurer. (Yours Truly) For new members edification, the strike cap is a hexagonal piece of brass and was used to set the Dick Biddle Memorial Spike at a location known only to several folks.

From the Past President

Wayne “Whistler” Lance will be attending several club sponsored events in the first quarter of the coming year. Wayne will be facilitating the popular seminar entitled, “Hog Hunting Tips in Tellico.” Wayne is also taking a refresher course on “The Proper Way to Fall Out of a Tree.” Eddie Oliver was suppose to attend the latter course but would like to save the Club money by just getting with Wayne on the particulars. Wayne, certainly one of our most active past presidents, will also be enrolled in “Installing a sky light…using a 12 gauge shotgun.” (At least that’s what he told Pat.)

Tarp Committee Report

Lee Carleston, Tarp Committee Co-Chair has reported that it may be time to at least think about retiring “Big Green Sky”. She’s been a real goodern but after four lightnin’ strikes and a bad run-in with a Coleman Northstar lantern, she’s startin’ to show her age. Several duct tape face lifts have kept her pretty over the last few years and she still got a knack for turnin’ away a down pour. She’s shown here on her maiden voyage in April of 2000.

From the Treasurer

We’re flush. No dues will be accessed in the coming year.

From the President

“The Chef” , Jimmy Lee is still on sabbatical in New Hampshire and may continue to potentate from that location. “It’s that time of year again when Committee Chair reports are due and I will be meeting with all committee members by phone or FaceBook over the next few weeks.” Jim continues, “Let’s get a good start on this years hiking and camping and be sure to make the new members welcome the first chance you get.”

And finally…

Merry Christmas!

Happy Birthday Jesus!

Quillin Defeats Anderson in Annual Daisy Duel

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 09:15:00 -0500

By now you’ve heard that Rob Quillin, a relatively unknown, won the Annual Daisy Duel by defeating 10 time World Champion Pappy Anderson in a recent match held at the North River Campground in Tellico Plains, TN. Although the victory was a shocker to fans near and far it was the final margin that people found hard to believe. The 21 to 14 shellacking was the widest margin recorded against Anderson since his debut in 1964 when he lost in the opening round to eventual champion, Pat Purvis, 21 to 12. “I don’t know, I was off my game…” Anderson said to reporters after the event. “The wind was a factor and I don’t think the target sizes were in my favor.” Asked if he thought Quillin might be a new rising star he said, “Yeah, I mean the guy’s got talent and I took him for granted so I ended up payin’ the price.” “It was definitely a wake up call so we’ll see what happens in the future.” Third place finisher, Ross Quillin, is the youngest shooter to ever place in the event. The first and second place finishers were both using Daisy Bulls Eyes and young quillin was using a Daisy Red Ryder.

North River Campout Report

Several members of the Dick Biddle Hiking Club convened recently at the North River Campground for R&R and a planning session for next years activities. Chief of Security Rob Quillin, fresh from his victory in the Daisy Duel, led a panel to discuss whether or not the club should invest in Taser Technology for the protection of members at times when bear activity is on the increase. He’ll report the findings of the committee to the President at the next general club meeting. The weather was again spectacular for the second weekend in a row as sunny skies prevailed and night time temps made the campfire a popular place to hang out. Members spent some time at the popular Bald River Falls and discussed college football at length with passerby's on the bridge. The entertainment committee sponsored a fishing contest which was won by Ross Quillin. Using a single hook and one kernel of corn the youngster boated what can only be described as a small trout but small or not it was large enough to take top honors.

The Video Evidence

Elkmont Campout Huge Success

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 8 Nov 2010 16:43:00 -0500

The weather was perfect and members convened at walk-in sites in Section A for what was to be a fantastic 3 day and 2 night campout. Mark Vance coordinated this popular Fall event and don’t forget to reimburse Mark for your campsite if you haven’t done so already. (Yours truly is guilty). We again were blessed by the Terry’s world famous egg rolls and how thankful we are for new members.

New Members

Club art director Lina Bahrom has recruited Sonja Meissner, a German exchange student, into the club. Lina and Sonja provided so much fun on this campout and their laughter was contagious. Be sure to check out Lina’s art in the video. Also, We welcome the Peters family, Brad, Heather, Dalton, and Lauren as new club members. We all stayed warm thanks to Brad’s thimble full of squirrel pee and Heather’s breakfast burritos were a huge hit. Dalton is quite the entertainer and might be headlining at some of the comedy clubs around Ktown real soon. After introductions Ross, Dalton, Mary Lyn, and Lauren were like old friends from way back. I know they can’t wait to get that hammock up again. The next update will feature new members fro Ruston, La and Columbus, Ms.

Winter Hikes

Be sure to send in your hike reports to don@knoxvillehouses.com and give us the who, what, when, and where. We already know the why. We also want photos to post to the blog and video as well. Remember that in Winter hiking you eat before you’re hungry and drink before you’re thirsty. Also, cotton is rotten, poly is jolly. Watch the weather reports prior to departure and don’t go by yourself. If you happen to come up on ole RhinoHog you want to make sure that you have a witness. RhinoHog was last spotted two years ago on Balsam Mt. This pig is a little on the heavy side and is built like a baby rhino. The club is offering a $1,000 prize for any member who can take a picture of this animal. You must be in the picture to collect the prize. Just in case Mike Biddle is involved, the club treasurer, yours truly, will determine if it’s really RhinoHog or a doctored photo. Please be careful if you approach this animal. If you’re using a tripod I would use a 2 second delay instead of the normal 10 seconds.

Member Spotlight

We shine the member spotlight on Lee Carleston, Chairman of the Tarp Committee. Lee has also held several seminars for the club on the subject of knot tying and this Eagle Scout doesn’t mess around when it comes to the art. Lee’s knots can be witness in a number of club videos and he’ll be competing in the North American Knot Tying Championships in South America some time next year. Lee is the go to guy if you have questions on how to take care of your gear. He is the proud owner of a Coleman 413G which is vintage late 1960’s. This stove is absolutely incredible. It makes me sick! It appears to have just been taken out of the box. Lee allowed me to cook on this stove on this campout. I did more damage in 2 hours to this stove than all the damage in the last forty some-odd years! Lee, I’m sorry. I , myself have a Coleman 413E which is early 60’s vintage. Next campout I would like to set these two stoves up side by side and

Here’s Lee in action (scratch&sniff)

take a good picture for posterity. The video at left is the new “scratch and sniff” technology! Try it out. After you start the video, just scratch the screen and you should be able to smell the bacon! Lee’s stewardship of his gear is legendary and I’ve learned a lot from him about every facet of the sport of camping. Lee is married to Joy Carleston who heads up the First Aid and Safety committee for the club and we affectionately call her the “Medicine Woman.”

From the President

Jimmy Lee said just because he’s in New Hampshire doesn’t mean that we should be slack with our committee reports. He still has the power of the demerit book and he’s not afraid to use it. He’s already issued 5 demerits to Rocket for wearing pink toe nail polish.

Fall Campout Video

Need I say more…

Lance Drive Bear Club - Fall Campout 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 11 Oct 2010 15:06:00 -0400

Just closed my FB open house!. Thanks for all of you who stopped by.

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 11 Oct 2010 12:11:00 -0400

I love this house! Always wanted my own blackberry patch. http://tinyurl.com/298zjd4

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 11 Oct 2010 11:33:00 -0400

I'm at FaceBook Open House right now! Stop in and say Hi! http://tinyurl.com/298zjd4

Hollerin' Contest Slated For Oct 9th, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 10:02:00 -0400

This years Annual Hollerin’ Contest will take place on Saturday night, 10/9/10 and the next morning will be 10/10/10. Is that 30? But anyway, Earl “Holler” Hanna will defend his championship at Campsite 20 on Meigs Mountain. Jimmy “The Chef” Lee might just climb down out of the mountains of New Hampshire for this event and rumors are rampant that Mountain Man Ed Oliver will also make an appearance. If you intend to compete in this years event your application should be submitted to Rick Biddle, Activities Chair, no later than midnight, Oct. 5th. “Sunshine” Edwards is down for a “maybe” but that weekend may be a milestone maker when his name changes to “Uncle Cole.” Campsite 20 will hold upwards of 75 members and overflow spots will be available on down the trail another mile to CS# 19. This will be an awesome adventure and remember that your participation is your implied consent to appear in the YouTube video. The mountain can turn chilly in October so pack accordingly. This should be a gorgeous time of the year for this event and members will begin gathering at the Jakes Creek Trail Head as early as 8:00 AM. The book says this is an “easy family hike” but it is 6 miles to the campsite. Now, for those of you who did not attend the last event here is the video that contains all the evidence.

Club Update

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 13 Sep 2010 17:58:00 -0400

Not much to add at this time but we do want to caution members about checking your pack real good before you come out of the woods. In the past I have come out of the woods with entire families of mice and I still believe those little stinkers have the ability to disappear right before your eyes. Chipmunks are another stealthy hitchhiker and I hate it when they talk to you in that little high pitched Alvin voice and demand that you take them back to the mountains. Insects are quite common of course but it’s always big news when

one of our members (who will remain anonymous) comes home and is asked by a four year old daughter “can I keep the black and white kitty in your pack daddy?” He said the first thought he had was that “there aren’t any black and white cats in the mountains!” The second thought was “uh ohh”. He had to buy a new pack because no other club members would go hiking with him. A opossum or coon is OK by themselves but man, you don’t won’t to end up with both of them in the same pack. They almost always have personality conflicts. I remember one time I got back home, unpacked and thought how great it was….NO MICE. Then, out slithers a 5 foot rattler with 4 little lumps. But of all the unlikely stories this one takes the cake. My good friend Lee Carleston, Tarp Committee Chair, just got back from a three nighter on the AT. He said the first thing he noticed when he unpacked was that his quart jar of Naga Jolokia peppers was empty. I don’t know how Lee eats the Naga Jolokia but quart will usually last him a month. They are the undisputed champ for the crown of “hottest pepper in the world.” Here’s what Wikipedia says:

Scoville rating

Naga Jolokia pepper

Heat
Maximum (SR: 1,041,427)

In 2000, India's Defence Research Laboratory (DRL) reported a rating of 855,000 units on the Scoville scale,and in 2004 a rating of 1,041,427 units was made using HPLC analysis.^[17] For comparison, Tabasco red pepper sauce rates at 2,500–5,000, and pure capsaicin (the chemical responsible for the pungency of pepper plants) rates at 15,000,000–16,000,000 Scoville units. So, anyway, he notices that his quart jar of Nagas is empty and all of sudden out of his pack pops this little fellow having a Naga seizure. Lee got this with his cell phone.

Club Update for September

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 8 Sep 2010 18:31:00 -0400

In case you didn’t get the word, the Lance Drive Bear Club will convene on Friday, Oct 15th and Saturday Oct 16th for the 2010 Fall Campout. The event will be held at Elkmont Main Campground and if you’re planning on attending you better hustle and get your reservations in at 1-800-365-2267. This is of course, peak season for leaf watchers and the fall colors are predicted to be nothing short of spectacular.

The annual “Ladies Jay Bird Swim” will happen on Saturday at Little River Swim hole #1. Remember that this event is for the lady members only and male participation is strictly forbidden. Men may only observe. Be sure to return your binoculars to the equipment room no later the Monday, 5:00 PM. Remember that your participation is your implied consent to appear in the YouTube video.

OUR CLUB HAS TALENT!

Rick Biddle, Libation Committee Chair, has continued to improve his “Mechanical Llama” invention and will be appearing on ABC’s Shark Tank this fall to seek investors for the project. This little baby can roll and while not quite as fast as the Dick’s Sporting Goods Shuttle Copter it can get to Mt. LeConte in under one hour traveling the ever treacherous Rainbow Falls Trail. The noise you hear in the video is actually a malfunctioning camcorder. This think is absolutely silent.

The only problem is finding a place to put about 50 lbs. of gear. Rick took it for a trial run without telling the park service and they were inundated with calls reporting a UCO. (crawling).

HANNAS ON THE MALL IN D.C.

Fred and Norma Hanna attended the recent rally for all Americans in Washington D.C. and they reported to the Political Action Committee (Tyler Fogarty, Chair) that our Nation is all about grass roots. Hundreds of thousands of people gathered to let the Beltway know that this is a Nation by the people and for the people. Hymns were song and prayers were prayed for our country and for our leadership. Alveda King was inspirational on this day when her Uncle Martin Luther King spoke these great words; "I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: 'We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.'" The Hannas are now safely home in Jackson, MS but they will be attending the Fall Campout. Perhaps some of view would like to speak to them about this great experience.

TREASURY REPORT

We’re flush.

FROM THE PRESIDENT

211 degree water is hot; just 1 more degree makes steam: which can power a train engine! http://bit.ly/dljxBB Small extra effort powers U! (Jim’s last tweet today).

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 8 Sep 2010 08:24:00 -0400

How could you watch this and not love Knoxville. http://bit.ly/9tLHLp

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 09:45:00 -0400

Traveling to Balsam Mountain Campground to check it out for Lance Dr. Bear Club.

CLUB REPORT FOR AUGUST

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 14:25:00 -0400

Hike reports are pouring in from all over the world as members of the club travel near and far for some late Summer trekking. This is weather getting ready to break for the wonderful coolness of Fall and it’s time now to plan years big event. Members of the Dick Biddle Hiking Club and the Lance Drive Bear Club will converge somewhere to be announced soon for the Big Convention. All committee chairs are urged to have your recommendations in written form so the Activity Chair Wayne Lance can make his final recommendations to the President.

INAUGURAL HIKE

Michael and Jack Coker attending the Alum Cave/Mt. LeConte Hike and this was there first foray into the back country. Yours truly, Dandy Anderson was on hand to record the ribbon cutting at the trail head. After a short speech by club president Jimmy Lee and a Trail Prayer for food, fun, faith and fellowship, the three of us pressed on in pursuit of the summit at Mt. LeConte. We were prepared for a

typical night in the Mt. LeConte Shelter but, to our good fortune, Michael met one of his clients on the trail who invited us to spend the night in the Inn! Laurie, his wife said that they had reservations for 17 people but three didn’t show up. She also explained that if they couldn’t find three more people that they would lose these 3 slots for next years reservation. Oh my goodness! How in the world could we not help these poor people! By all means we must accept your invitation. Oh what a sacrifice we made by not staying in the shelter and enjoying our hydrated noodles. Instead we were forced to dine in the Inn where we were served bowls and bowls of mashed potatoes, green beans, thick and hearty beef stew, corn bread, stewed apples and chocolate chip cookies the size of a dinner plate. Yes, it was a sacrifice but as members of the Dick Biddle Hiking Club we must always be good ambassadors and do our part to help our fellow man. Following this fantastic meal we were able to waddle out to Cliff Point where we were treated to a 30 minute talk about Park history by one of the Rangers, after which we witnessed a spectacular sunset. There were some poor souls in attendance who were staying in the shelter. We must not look down on those less fortunate. But for us it was happiness and glee as we returned to our cabin where warmth and safety abound. All around the LeConte Village the cone flowers were spectacular and nine varieties off bees were counted while they worked late into the beautiful evening. The youth in our group entertained the elders with their rendition of “Talent Hunt” and the the winner was Rachel who sang me to sleep with a beautiful Irish song. Sweet dreams gave way to sunrise and we all waited with great anticipation for the “breakfast bell” at the LeConte Dining room. Ham n' eggs, mountain grits, piled high biscuits, honey, jam, coffee and chocolate milk. We were so concerned for the poor folks over at the shelter but what could we do? Before trekkin’ the trail back down the mountain we rested in the rockers on the porch outside and took in the last moments of this Mount LeConte paradise. The weather was great on the way down with trail temps in the mid 70 range and our group was treated to and Animal Planet moment when Jack noticed a baby snake, probably a timber rattler, eating a salamander

bigger than he was. I would say that after finishing this meal the little snake would be good for a couple of months! Be very respectful of any snake you find in the mountains. Rattlers and copperheads are quite common and and even a baby just seconds old can be deadly. As we made our way down the mountain there it was . Right before our very eyes one of the most spectacular species of fungi in the western hemisphere. Fungisporri hugeamonguous are quite rare and in my 20 years of trail experience this was a first for me. From the birth of a single spore it takes less than 3 hours for this mushroom to reach it’s full height which can be over 5 feet tall! Then in less than 30 minutes it vanishes as if it had never existed. Very pungent odor I might add. It is edible but not very savory. The last mile out we experienced a wonderful Summer shower and as we stepped onto the parking lot we gave thanks for a truly blessed outing of food, fun, faith, and fellowship.

VANCE IN TRANCE AFTER VISITING FRANCE

Mark and Sharon Vance have returned home safely after attending a colossal convention of the World Hiking Club Federation. Rep-resenting the Dick Biddle Hiking Club, the Vances attended several symposiums relating to their duties in the club. As Entertainment Committee Chair, Mark was on hand at the Gala Finale’ where President Sarkozy passed out awards for the year. Sharon graciously received top honors for “Best New Bloody Mary Recipe.” and we certainly understand why. It really gets your morning started off on the right left foot.

TREASURY REPORT

Sharon Vance has donated the $5,000 dollar prize from her top honors award at the convention back to the coffers of the club. Now we would be in great shape if it had not been for the paternity suit out of court settlement. The Legal committee decided to settle after several Polaroids surfaced which were widely circulated on the net. The Disciplinary Committee will not take action because this is his first strike and they felt that grace was warranted even though the evidence was compelling. This probably should not have shown up in the treasury report but hey, whatcha gonna do? He continues to categorically deny these allegations and that’s all well and good but one of his intercepted emails admitted that it was “his Frank Sinatra eyes that always got him in trouble.” Rocket’s agent, Cara Maxon wants to assure the club that this will not happen again.

FROM THE PRESIDENT

“The Chef” Jimmy Lee is now living in the land of the Yanks and he feels that it will be good for the club if a few Yankees are recruited. We wish him the best and we look forward to seeing him on his frequent forays into the sweet, sweet South.

THE STRIKE CAP

Who’s got the strike cap? Wherever the cap is is anybody’s guess so be looking for it to show it in your pack on a future hike. You may recall that the strike cap was used to set the Dick Biddle Memorial Spike at a location know only to club members. It’s clearly visible in Eddie Oliver’s hand in the memorial film. It’s quite a chunky piece of brass and adds about a half pound to your pack weight.

SEE YOU AT THE TOP!

Dandy Anderson, Treasurer

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 10:18:00 -0400

Looky what's happening in Washington!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 09:07:00 -0400

GOOD MORNING KNOXILLE! Have a great Saturday!

December Update

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 27 Dec 2009 22:56:00 -0500

Yeah, yeah, I know we already had a December update. I looked through the rule book and I can't find anything that says we are to have only one update in any given month. Besides, we didn't have any updates from April to November so we are still behind.

Journey to Spence Field

Members of the club set out for Spence Field on Dec. 5th for overnight fun at the shelter which was packed with hikers from all over the world. Brian and Terry were there and thru-hikers "Fire Builder" and "A-Train" entertained all with their stories about their experiences on the AT for 5 and half months. Four inches of the Christmas white stuff didn't deter members and the cooking smells over the shelter fire were nothing short of extraordinary.

The story begins in the parking lot of the cades cove ranger station where our check-in and back country registration went off without a hitch. We were at the trail head by 1:00 p.m. and the weather was threatening to say the least. Not particularly cold but already the snow was beginning to sputter even at this lower elevation. Cole Edwards and Dandy Anderson tee off first with other members bringing up the rear. Sunshine Edwards graded out a solid "A" on the hike while Anderson scored C-, his lowest grade in over 3 years. He was obviously over weight and out of shape as the time to the shelter exceeded 5 hours. He barely made the cut and if he does not pick it up a notch or too he could be excluded from future Level 3 hikes and above.

"I'm not ready for Gregory's Bald. Hopefully, before the Spring event I can lose weight and increase my stamina so I can give the younger members a run for their money."

-- Dandy Anderson

Around 6:00 p.m. as the sun was setting behind the ridge the remodeled shelter was a sight for sore eyes and the smoke from the chimney was warm and inviting. Winter fires are rare at Spence as consistent snows keep the firewood covered and hard to find. Brian shared a great little technique for staying warm with a nalgene bottle and no, it has nothing to do with using it as a bed pan.

The morning clouds gave way to the sun's rays but the temp didn't give up anything. Very cold but two bowls of warm grits and cheddar cheese warmed us up as we prepared to hit the trail. I visited the new privy and warmed the seat for those who followed and it's a shame I didn't think to snap a photo of this grand throne. Some might complain but not I who early on considered the alternative. Sunshine again led the expedition down the mountain and my times were much better on the down slopes. Regrettably, due to our time constraint we were unable to visit the memorial site. What a great winter hike and the food, fun, faith and fellowship were plentiful.

Strike Cap Mystery

You may recall the Strike Cap Game instituted by the Entertainment Committee (Cara Maxon, Chair). The Strike Cap was used to set the Memorial at a site known only to members and the game involves secretly passing the Cap to members on future hikes. The most common way to pass the cap is slipping into a fellow members pack on the way out of the mountains. You never know when it may end up in your pack. There's a good shot of MM Oliver holding the Cap in the Memorial Film.

Lawson Defends Fire Building Crown

Leon Lawson successfully defended his fire building championship for the second year in a row. You wouldn't think that being an architect would give you any particular advantage for this competition but apparently building buildings and building fires must have something in common.

Change Your E-Mail Address?

Be sure to let the Communication Committee know if you change your email address so you won't be dropped from future mailings. If you have any questions about changing your e-mail address contact Ed Oliver or Michael Coker. They change theirs about once a week.

Cooking Contest Applications

The 2010 Cooking Contests are being planned for the Summer and applications may be requested from the Culinary Committee Chair Terry Motoyama. Rumors are that Elaine Kirby will enter this year's competition and this will pose a serious threat to current champ Chef Jimmy Lee. Mary Grace Kirby will assist and Maddy Claire will help by licking the bowl.

From the President

Jim Lee would again like to remind all committee chairs to provide year end reports as soon as possible so that 2010 budgets may be competed. He would also like to convey his wishes for a Happy and Successful New Year.

Treasurer's Report

Man, we got a lot of money!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

April through December 2009 Club Update

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 3 Dec 2009 11:52:00 -0500

It's been a while since the last update so we have some catching up to do. The amount of activity in the club has been unbelievable and we have all been busy with club business, therefore, the Blog Committee has gotten behind. Now that things are slowing a bit we intend to make like tomatoes and ketchup.

LANCE DRIVE BEAR CLUB APRIL CABINOUT.

You may recall that our Lance Drive Bear Club contingency enjoyed each others company at a Cabinout in April. We have previously reported that a Cabinout is like a campout with the exception that you are in a cabin instead of a tent. This is always a welcome break for Chief of Security Rob Quillin as bears are not much to worry about. Also taking a break are the members of the Tarp Committee, Chair and Co-Chair Lee Carleston and Everready Getty's respectively. Food, Fun, Faith, and Fellowship were had in great abundance as Tom and Terry Motoyama again provided the GREATEST EGG ROLLS IN THE WORLD to the club. If you have not experienced the joy of watching the process of preparing theses mouth watering delights we have you covered in the video. Don Anderson's seminar on "How to Change the Batteries in Your Blackberry" was canceled for lack of interest. Entertainment Committee Chair Mark Vance was very busy with an active schedule of musical mastery. Technology Chair Tom Motoyama was instrumental in last minute big screen TV repair so that the EARLY YEARS camping video was able to be shown. Bar-b-que night was a huge hit and, as always, the food fare was spectacular. Thanks again to all of the club members who joined in and helped clean up the place after the food fight.

UPCOMING HIKE

On Friday, December 4th, Cole Edwards will lead an overnight hike to Spence Field for one night in the new shelter. Weather forecast is snow and temperatures in the teens. The shelter is sold out for this trip but if someone in the club wants my reservation it can be had for $500.00. Make that $1,000. I'm not missing this trip for anything less. Cole will be interviewing four new club candidates and if new memberships are granted the he will have secured his position as TOP RECRUITER for the months of April through November. Remember that your participation in this hike is evidence of your implied consent to appear in the YouTube video. Sometime during this event participants will attend the JRB Memorial at a location known only to the membership.

CLUB MEMBER OBTAINS PATENT

Our own Rick Biddle has obtained a patent for a revolutionary mode of transportation up the mountain. This thing can carry up to 250 lbs including the driver. Not bad for $19.95. Rick reports that the first prototype was lost. Apparently Wayne Lance was to test the apparatus on a short hike and just before he got in the darn thing fired up and ran like hell. It hasn't been seen since.

PRESIDENTS REPORT

Club President Jim Lee reminds all committee chairs to have their year end reports available for the next board meeting. These reports are used for budgeting requirements for the coming year.

FURLONG WINS SCAT IDENTIFICATION CONTEST

Congratulations are in order for Bill Furlong who placed first in the Mid Regional Scat Identification competition held in August in Cades Cove. The of 74 eSCATologist identified the scat of over 30 species of animals native to the Park. Furlong was the only entrant to correctly identify the scat of the common chipmunk. Apparently Alvin was suffering from a broken right rear leg which accounted for the smudge in the normally round scat.

TREASURER'S REPORT

Even after the vet's bill for Rocket the Wonder Dog (club mascot) we have plenty of cash in the coffers. We paid for his shots and we also sprang for a pink painted pedicure.

Everyone have a Merry and Blessed Christmas!

March 2009 Club Update

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 23:12:00 -0400

It's been a long hard winter but here we are just a few days away from spring and a spectacular time of the year for day hikes and over-nighters to shelters and tent sights. It's a great time to check out new gear at Campmor and good gear and new technologies can sure make life easier in the back country.

HIKE REPORT WITH VIDEO

This past weekend several members along with three officers of the club attended a 2 day event which has been dubbed The Banquet at Walnut Bottoms. President of the Club, Jimmy "The Chef" Lee, Club Secretary, Wild Bill Furlong, and Club Treasurer, Dandy Anderson presided over the first annual Dick Biddle Hiking Club Cooking Competition. This was the spring event for conventional dishes only and the annual Dutch Oven Competition will be held later in the year. Jimmy Lee took first place on Thursday

night's competition introducing "Sautéed Tenderloin with Garlic and Onion" and Dandy Anderson took second with "Worcestershire Braised Beef Patty and Bleu Cheese." There were several honorable mentions but the less experienced members were quick to learn that dishes focusing on canned Vienna sausage or smoked oysters just did not appeal to the judges. Anderson was close again on the Friday night competition and was momentarily in the lead with a flavorful combo of Portabella Mushroom and beef, pan seared in butter with Worcestershire sauce. "The Chef", Jimmy Lee saved his best for last as that southern staple of "Shrimp and Grits" blew us all away. Reporters from the Knoxville paper cornered Wild Bill for comments and he muttered something about how cold the gel was. No one knows what that means but he went on to say that his opinion was that Chef Jimmy's superior experience in Tuscaloosa was a major factor in this year's competition. Doug the Yank, pictured at right with Club President Jimmy Lee, dropped by for happy hour and quickly won the hearts of many as he "worked the site" with youthful exuberance. He is now a member of the club and we hope to enjoy his company and camaraderie again soon.

FHA WARNING

President Lee received a letter from the FHA (Federal HIKING Administration) signed by Nancy Bolognessi which warned the club of slow activity. If the hammer fell then we would be forced to remove the word "HIKING" from our name. Tyler Fogarty was advised of the notice and wasted no time in contacting our friends in the House and Senate and hours later we were informed that the notice was sent in error and that the Banquet at Walnut Bottom completely satisfied regulations for the next decade. Now that's your HCPAC hard at work.

MERITS AND DEMERITS

The party's over it seems. Previous administrations (Lance and Ford) were quite tolerant but the new man has instituted a policy of merits and demerits and Quint Bourgeois is the first to score. The new administration will assess 2 demerits for indicating that you are participating in a planned event and then failing to participate. Dandy Anderson was assessed one demerit for over sleeping on the morning of the hike. The complete merit/demerit policy manual is under construction but it has leaked to several members that demerit points might be issued for urinating too close to camp, failing to use deodorant, intentionally wetting another members toilet paper, talking too much while on the trail, failing to say your prayers at night, failing to provide your fare share of firewood, and not contributing intellectually to discussions about quantum physics or quantum mechanics. Merits may be awarded for helping a fellow member set up her/his tent, contributing musically to an event, initiating an event, or providing food at an event. The good news is that demerits are completely expunged from your record after 10 minutes.

MYSTERY MEMBER

Seven members identified Mountain Man (MM) Ed Oliver in the wintry photo. Ed has contributed another photo which indicates the arrival of spring in the Great White North. His explanation to me was "when we begin to see the deer we know that spring is near." The rear dear might be getting a jump on the spring mating season. MM was in town recently and had lunch with Whistler and Dandy. It ended up being a 2 hour lunch as many war stories were served up like a three way ping pong game. We finally came to our senses while the manager was escorting us out of the restaurant. I think it might have had something to do with our re-enactment of the campfire scene in "Blazing Saddles."

GEAR

Don't forget to visit dickbiddlehikingclub.com for club events and visit the gear swap page for used equipment.

NEW MEMBERS

We welcome Cynthia Cormany and Doug "The Yank" Fagan as our newest members.

TARP COMMITTEE

Lee Carleston and Ever Ready Gettys have completed the Tarp Maintenance Program and all tarps are ready and in top condition for 2009 hikes and car camps.

LANCE DRIVE BEAR CLUB

The Lance Drive Contingency has scheduled a "Cabinout" for April 3rd and 4th. This event sold out quickly and those who were late responding may want to check the batteries on their blackberry. You must be fast if you want to run with the fastest. Club Treasurer Dandy Anderson will attend this event and conduct a seminar on "How to Change The Batteries on Your Blackberry." Unfortunately, if this seminar is of interest, you probably won't be in attendance.

CLUB RULE

Remember that attendance at any club event gives your implied consent to appear and participate in the YouTube video. Be on guard as comments about gel or your spouse's liquor budget may not be good fodder for the masses.

NEW CLUB GAME

Strike Cap, Strike Cap, who's got the Strike Cap? What is the Strike Cap? The Strike Cap was used to set the John Richard Biddle Memorial at a location known only to members. The Cap is brass, hexagonal in shape, weighs a hefty 11 ounces, and is inscribed as follows. First line: JRB which stands for John Richard Biddle; Second line: Memorial; Third line: Strike Cap; Fourth line; FFFF which stands for Food, Fun, Faith, Fellowship; Fifth line: 1 John 1:9 which is the last verse noted on the first rice leaf of John Richard Biddle's Bible. Click on the picture to get a closer look. Currently, out of 65 club members, only two members know who holds the strike cap. The giver and the receiver. The receiver is charged with the responsibility of praying for the club while in possession of the Cap. The Holy Spirit will assist in reminding the holder of the Cap to pray for the club and/or members of the club. If the holder gets tired of praying for the club then the holder must attend an event and secretly pass the Cap to another member by placing the Cap in the members outbound pack. If you get caught, no big deal. Just don't let the other members know about the transfer. Only the President of the club is authorized to make an inquisition as to the holder of the Cap. The President's inquisition must be authorized by the Treasurer. This provision will only be used from time to time to verify that the Cap is still in circulation. If the Cap is lost then Ro 8:28 will prevail.

FROM THE PRESIDENT

Jimmy Lee has commissioned several members to form a task force for the purpose of finding the best method to determine the remaining amount of propane gas in used canisters. Many members have as many as 10 to 20 used canisters that may work or may not. If the commission is successful then thousands of dollars could be saved over the next 300 years or so.

TREASURER’S REPORT

The time has finally come that dues will need to be assessed in order to meet our budget. The Budget Committee has determined that the annual assessment per member will be .42 cents. Since that is exactly the amount of postage to mail the statements, the Budget Committee just decided to call it even.

Respectfully submitted,

Dandy Anderson, Treasurer

White Smoke Seen Coming From Election Campfire.

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 20:41:00 -0500

COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS

We don't want to intrude too much on this very special family time of the year but we would like to announce that all of the committee chairs and all of the committee members have so graciously agreed to serve in the same capacity in the exciting NEW YEAR! Those of you who would like to serve on a committee are greatly appreciated and we are sure openings will become available in the future. In the mean time....sit back....relax....and enjoy the FOOD, FUN, FAITH, and FELLOWSHIP.

OFFICERS

It is with great pleasure that I announce the election of JIM LEE as President of the Dick Biddle Hiking Club for 2009. Out going President, Phil Ford, passes the torch to Jim after a great year of growth and FFFF. Jim will lead us into a bright new year of exciting events that all members look forward to with great anticipation. Jim's culinary reputation proceeds him especially in the area of the sautéed mushroom. He is also the go to authority on llama scat and authors the best real estate blog in Knoxville. Former Presidents, Wayne Lance and Phil Ford, will participate in the orderly transfer of power.

MYSTERY MEMBER

How many members of the Club will experience a White Christmas? One for sure. Can you identify this member? Is he male or is she female? Email don@knoxvillehouses.com with your answer and, if correct, you will receive the coveted Member Identification Badge. Winners will be announced after the New Year. Hint: Merry Christmas from the Great White North!

DECEMBER CLUB UPDATE

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 11:31:00 -0500

FOR THE LADIES
One of our ladies has found a sweet little boutique in Summerville, SC which she recommends. If you are looking for something special for someone special you may want to check it out.

CAMP GEAR

This is a perfect time of the year to tell Santa what you need in the way of camp gear. Campmor had a free shipping deal going and they have great prices.

NEW CLUB MASCOT

Rocket, the blued eyed devil wonder dog, has been named Club Mascot. Just look at the seriousness of this face. He's not playing around folks...this dog is serious. Oh sure he can be cute and cuddly but when it comes to keeping bears at bay this guy's your man...I mean dog. Look at those ears...no sound in the night escapes them. Don't stare at those blues for long. That spiky collar is an indication of "attitude."

WINTER HIKES

We've already had two big snows in Spence Field! The new shelter is in great shape and as you know, the view is spectacular at the memorial site.

EQUIPMENT ROOM

Allen BeCraft reports that there are several sets of binoculars that have not been turned in. They were checked out around the time of the annual "Ladies Jay Bird Swim." Please check your gear and return these items at your earliest convenience.

BUG BOX

Ross Quillin reports finding Patrick Biddle's bug box. Unfortunately, all of the 8 crickets are gone. The spider may have died from obesity.

HIKE REPORT

Date/Hikers
10-9-08: "Sunshine Edwards, "Holler" Hanna, and "Dandy" Anderson

Trail/Destination
GSMNP: Campsite #20 on Meigs Mountain Trail

Scripture Reference- Isa 2:14
for all the towering mountains and all the high hills

Comments and video
Fantastic hike about 2.5 miles to campsite 20. Level site with plenty of water. Three members found their way in in Friday afternoon. Saw a turkey fly off in the distance. "Sunshine Edwards, "Holler" Hanna, and "Dandy" Anderson had a fantastic time. The fire was warm as the night air grew chilly. The fire was also home to a t-bone and two filets and three baked potatos. Smoked salmon and caviar hor duerves with sharp cheddar cheese got the appetites fired up and when it was time to eat we bowed our heads and thank God for our safe hike and some fantastic food. We went to bed full and the sun rise came fast. I asked Hanna where the sun was rising and Edwards pop up out of his tent and said "right here it is!" Thus the trail name "Sunshine" has been bestowed on one of the newest members of the club. "Sunshine pumped some water and took off back to Ktown to

sell some realty. In came a troupe of 13 to 15 llamas and close behind them was Whistler and the Architect. The llamas were interesting to examine and photograph up close. It also made it very easy to indentify llama scat. I asked Whistler if he would like to see some llama scat and he said "I been walkin' in it all day." Just a great afternoon of FFFF and Leon did a great job of readying the fire for more grilling. Saw one deer. Hollerin' contest went off without a hitch. Earl "Holler" Hanna declared the winner by past president Wayne Lance. Thus the newly dubbed "Holler" on his second hike. Chorus of snores all night. Everyone but me. Coyote visiter early Sunday morning. Stayed about 10 minutes scavaging around site. Dandy and Holler ate a late breakfast and left. All members returned home safely. Great camp. —Don Anderson

FIRE OF THE YEAR AWARD

Congratulations go to Leon Lawson, this years winner of the coveted "Fire of the Year" award. Leon's extraordinary fire at Campsite 20 was far and away the winner and served as a wonderful backdrop for the annual Hollerin' Contest. This thing was cookin’ like a brick oven and the baked potatoes were perfect.

FROM THE PRESIDENT

Phil Ford sends his heartfelt thanks to all of the committee chairs for getting their end of the year reports to him on time.

"This has been a very successful year for the Club and it's with great anticipation that we look forward to the coming year for record amounts of Food, Fun, Faith, and Fellowship." -- Phil Ford

SPEAKING OF FOOD, FUN, FAITH, AND FELLOWSHIP...

The Executive Committee extends a hearty MERRY CHRISTMAS to all and in this Season may you and your family experience the joy and love that can only be found in a personal relationship with the One who's birthday we honor...Jesus Christ.

November Club Update

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 16:43:00 -0500

WINTER HIKES

Here's where the men are separated from the boys and the women are separated from the girls. Winter hiking is most definitely a greater challenge than any other season of the year. The upper elevations can and will present bitter cold temperatures and being prepared takes on a greater importance than just forgetting your toilet paper in the summer. Forgive me, but the least of your worries is wiping when it's frozen off. Proper clothing is essential to prevent the elements from ruining not only a good hike but also good fingers and toes. Lots of synthetics, polyesters, nylons, Gortex, and fleece, for your head covers and layers on the body. Cotten is rotten, poly is jolly. Wool is good especially for socks. You need sock liners to wick the moisture away from your feet. Take some chapstick too. It's surprising how cold it can be and yet you can still hike in shorts and a nylon top. It's when you stop for any length of time that you need to layer. Eat before you're hungry and drink before you're thirsty. Staying dry is essential to the survival process. Why would anyone in their right mind go up on the mountain in the winter? That's harder to explain than the foregoing cautions, precautions and advice. Some of us remember a bartender from Miami by the name of Omar. It was Spence Field in the Winter of 95. "The more miserable I am the better I like it." I can't say I agree with Omar but I understand his explanation. The Winter landscape is breathtaking especially during a snow fall which occurs frequently on the mountain. There is also a greater respect and appreciation for mountain folks in the 18th and 19th centuries. It's definitely not for everybody but for those who prepare it is an extremely rewarding experience.

FROM THE PRESIDENT

Here's a photo of a nice backcountry campsite that I came across while hiking at Frozen Head State Park in Morgan County last Sunday. The campsite was about 3½ miles from the parking area with an elevation gain of about 1500 foot. What do you think about the fire ring?

Take care! Phil Ford

NEW MEMBERS

Welcome Geoff and Karen Anderson as our newest members. Karen loves to trout fish and Geoff's specialty is El Charro's. They come to us by way of the Lance Drive Bear Club.

TARP COMMITTEE REPORT

Lee Carleston, Committee Chair, reports that all tarps will be unavailable for check out until Spring. The reconditioning process has begun and all tarps will be in top condition for next years peak season.

ENTERTAINMENT COMMITTEE

We have a "Wealth" of entertainment talent in the club and if you have a special talent you are encouraged to contact Committee chair Mark Vance or Steve Ritter for an audition. As Mark says...."we must spread the wealth around."

BEAR ATTACK

You may have seen this on the national news in the last week. Particularly gruesome. Don Canter found the pictures which were taken by a bystander while surfing on the internet...Don was surfing...not the bystander....I put the pics at the end of this update so that the faint of heart would not be forced to view them. You must scroll if you dare....

DAY HIKES

There are still plenty of warmer days left in 2008 for outstanding day hikes. Why don't you check out the club roster, call someone you don't know, and coordinate a day hike. Take some pictures or video, pick a scripture reference and send them to Mike Biddle at mpbiddl5@tva.gov. Great exercise, a new friend, what could possibly be better than that?

STOP HERE UNLESS YOU WANT TO VIEW THE BEAR ATTACK PICTURES.

Hike Report

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 13:16:00 -0400

Date/Hikers
8-24-07: David Walls, Don Anderson

Trail/Destination
GSMNP: Campsite 24

Scripture Reference Rev 22:7

"Behold, I am coming soon! Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy in this book.

Fantastic hike this past weekend to campsite 24. I, as the Hike Meister for this trip, must apologize to all participating club members as I did not ascertain the status of site availability for a rationed site. Upon arriving at 24 the park service had posted signs which closed the site due to "bear activity". Due to several members who were

physically exhausted I made the decision to make camp. Shortly after tent inspection I was notified by one of the members that there was a large bear approaching from the north on the Little River Trail. Word spread fast through the camp and all members scurried to the shelter of their tent. All members but one. David Walls, one of our newest inductees, took up a post on the edge of camp and as I arrived on the scene he was confronting the animal. In my estimation the animal was between 125 and 600 lbs. David hollered something unintelligible and then did a back flip, sticking the landing. The bear ran north at a full gallop. He kept looking back to make sure David wasn't following him. We never saw the animal again. I set off a couple of fire crackers in celebration and to inform the other members that the coast was clear.

The annual "JAYBIRD SWIM" was a huge success! The diversion tactic worked well. As you recall the publicly announced location was Little River Swim Hole #13. The SWIM actually took place at Rabbit Creek #2, over 5 miles away. Fun and Fellowship were had by all at a very private location. On the way out a day hiker said he spotted several women in the woods around Little River #13 and they said they were "filming nature." One lady had a camera and tripod and the day hiker swore she had on Gortex boots with 6-inch heels. That is really a strange coincidence Marie.....I'm sure your foot surgeon would be interested in seeing some of your "nature" photography.

Neophyte Dave Walls lead an off trail expedition to demonstrate his GPS. After crossing 3 ridges and 2 draws we found ourselves some 2 miles up in the back country when David began to repeatedly hit the side of his GPS. He gravely announced that the batteries were dead and there was a collective gasp as most everyone new the seriousness of the predicament. As Hike Meister all eyes fell on me. I had no choice but to confidently exclaim "FOLLOW ME" and 2 hours later we immerged from the forest right in the middle of our camp. Some time later David cornered me and wanted to know how I did that without the aid of a compass. I told him it was easy.....I just followed the trail of "Swisher Sweet Cigar Wrappers which lead us right back to his tent....
My most memorable moment was Friday night as David Walls conducted a Bible study by reading the 22nd Chapter of Revelations. Very uplifting prayer as well.
Great food....beef stroganoff, triskets and sharp cheddar cheese, coffee, and grilled bratts with mustard and relish.
FOOD FUN FAITH AND FELLOWSHIP WERE HAD BY ALL.

—Don Anderson

Hike Report

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 16:58:00 -0400

7-13-07: Don Anderson, Mike Biddle

Trail/Destination
GSMNP: Laurel Gap Shelter

Scripture Reference- 1 Corinthians 16:13
Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.

Anderson’s Comments
Fabulous hike! I'm puttin this one down for every July because the Rhodys were peeking in full bloom. Great fellowship with Mike Biddle. Luxury of a picnic table at the shelter. Dehydrated chicken and rice (vintage 1995)was delish. We had a rip roarin fire that just quit. Good water source. The legend of the Smoky Mountain RhinoHog begins. I had the awesome pleasure of a 10 second look

at a true mountain monster. Scared the livin _ _ _ _ outa me! I thought it was a bear but then I quickly realized that there ain't no black bear this big! Had to be at least 8 feet from snout to rump and it was black as coal. This animal has now grown to a size that it will be hard to conceal itself. I plan on making more noise as I hike in the future. Great Scripture reading but I have forgotten the reference. Mike will include it in his hike report. A good time was had by all at the top. —Don Anderson

Biddle’s Comments

A strenuous, but incredible hike! I saw my first elk about 1.5 miles up the Big Creek trail, he just stared at me and didn't budge. I made a little noise with my poles and moved off the trail about five feet, so I walked cautiously around him. The water features on this hike are incredible, but the weeds were overtaking the trail on 50% of the route, so I kept my eye out for rattlesnakes (I saw one the last time I was on this trail.) I thought it was going to be me and the field mice in the shelter, but Uncle Don came in around 6:30pm or so and I'm glad he did. We swapped a few camp stories and had good fellowship. I left the shelter about 7:00am or so the next morning and saw my first wild hog on the way out. —Mike Biddle

HIKE REPORT

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 3 May 2007 17:31:00 -0400

Date/Hikers
5-03-07: Don Anderson, Earl Hanna

Trail/Destination
GSMNP: Little River Trail at Campsite #30 (tent site)

Scripture Reference- Ps 124:5
The raging waters would have swept us away.

Comments view trip photo(s)
This hike was one I won't soon forget. The fellowship with my nephew Earl Hanna, (newest member of the club) was
great and I got a free lesson on hike planning. I've been to #24 several times and I've been to #30 several times so I figured
I new how far it was to 30 and why should I consult the book. As it turns out, 30 was 3 miles farther than I remembered it being and I also didn't remember the 3 "tricky" creek crossings between 24 and 30. On this trip, "tricky" was an understatement! That’s why I named the video “Styin’ Alive”. I hope the owners of the copyright don’t mind me using it.We had a great day Friday with very little rain and later in the evening we had a fantastic "whiteman's fire". Earl’s a hard worker and he really fixed us up with a pile of firewood. It started raining

late in the evening and rained all night and most of Saturday. Our plan to barbeque steaks was completely rained out as we were not able to keep the fire hot enough to cook. Earl came through with a great idea to pan fry them on the MSR Whisperlite. We even experimented with rice and seasonings and I can’t remember what we called it but it was really good. While we were cookin’ this little salamander (orange and black) showed up on the stump to see what the dinner fare was and I regret I didn’t take his picture. We did get a good picture of us in the creek however. Earl is very good at solutions and it was raining so hard I was concerned about the Canon G5 digital camera getting wet. I had packed in my little three legged stool and Earl suggested it would make a dandy tripod with the waterproof seat covering the camera. It worked great. We got the picture and then broke camp to experience three challenging stream crossings on the way out. If you look closely at the picture you can see that it was raining pretty hard at the time. The whirlpool temperature was about 105 degrees and we couldn't stay in long because it just turns
your muscles to jelly. —Don Anderson