Adirondack Peeks Winter 2024

IN THE PACK "An empty backpack does little to support a hiker. A full backpack is necessary. The same holds true for the 46er organization; we need many volunteers to assist us and they are highlighted here." Thank you for your service! W e would like to welcome the following new vol unteers. Thank you each for stepping up! Board Member for the Adirondack Marathon. When I was asked to help with the Audit Committee for the 46ers, I of course agreed, as the organization does such important work in the Park. I have also hiked with many of the Board Members so have always felt very connected to the orga nization."

Lisa Crandall #11554 has joined the Education Com mittee. Says Lisa, "I am proud to be a part of the 46er or ganization and the amazing Education Committee. Work ing alongside such dedicat ed and talented individuals makes each challenge we face feel more manageable and rewarding. This team is hardworking and consistently displays a commitment to ex cellence, which inspires me every day. Education is a vital piece of work in keeping the ADK 'Ruggedly Beautiful' while ensuring the safety of both the environment and its visitors. As I reflect on the changes in my lifetime, it becomes clear how crucial ed ucation helps foster a deeper connection of this unique space by focusing on topics like environmental conser vation, sustainable tourism, and responsible hiking prac tices. When I know better, I do better. Giving back to our outdoor spaces, particularly in the beautiful Adirondacks, is not just a responsibility but a commitment driven by gratitude. The ADK has provided me countless moments of solace, adventure, inspiration, and some incredible friendships. The mountains especial ly have been my sanctuary during times of stress and my playground during moments of joy."

Brent Pierce #5959 is excited to be part of the committee that plans the annual club meetings/din ners. Brent says, "When I finished my 46 in 2006, I remember the dinner be ing a very special event to be a part of. The excite ment in the air that night was electrifying. I have al

ways enjoyed giving back to the 46ers through my time as a trailhead steward and now, as a director, the oppor tunity to help out even more is awesome! I have experi ence planning large group events/dinners as part of the committee for the retirement dinner/Celebration Bash for the faculty and staff of Capital Region BOCES. During my time with BOCES I also assisted with the planning of a "Very Special Prom" for the students in the special ed. di vision of BOCES. Outside of work I was the chairperson of the American Diabetes Association Tour de Cure bicycle event and led the planning committee that organized the annual fundraising event for six years. I look forward to working with this committee to plan the annual dinners so new and returning 46ers can all share in the same fun and camaraderie that the dinner provides.

Sheila Young #2994V has volunteered to help with the Dinner Com mittee! Sheila says she wants to volunteer be cause, "As a 46er, I feel I owe my support to the mountains, the trails, and the 46er organization.

Scott Ireland has agreed to take on the role of Au dit Committee Chairper son. Says Scott about his decision to volunteer: "My wife and I moved to the Adirondacks full time just about five years ago, and one of our goals was to become involved in the community. Since

This has motivated me to volunteer for Trailhead Steward ship, Trail Crew events, and service to the organization by stepping up to support the activities of the Board of Directors on the Bylaws Committee, and now the Dinner Committee."

then, I have become President of the Schroon Lake As sociation, Executive Director of the Adirondack Lakes Al liance, Secretary for the ADKHighPeaks Foundation, and

WINTER 2024 | 47