Poker Run at Black Run Preserve April 18th.Walk while raising money for the Friends of Black Run Preserve. A poker run is not a race. Participants walk 4 miles along a specific route. We’ll stop at five checkpoints to choose a playing card and learn more about this Pine Barrens gem. These cards make up a five-card poker hand, and the highest hands select from over 50 prizes donated by local businesses including REI and Pinelands Adventures. Winners must be present to choose their prize. For more information visit Meetup |
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I am going to take a big chance right now and say that spring has finally sprung. We have tons of activities planned, so if you didn’t get out much during our cold winter, here’s your chance to finally soak up some warmth and hopefully, sun. If you did get out, that is wonderful and keep enjoying what else the club ha s to offer in the nicer weather.
On 03/15/26, 88 people enjoyed our annual Leaders’ Banquet at the Riverton Country Club in Cinnaminson. The 88 people were comprised of our 2025 qualified leaders and their guests, if they chose to bring one. In addition to the banquet and a free membership, these leaders also received a solar bank so they could charge their phone and use a flashlight. The board also gave Joe Fabian a plaque to thank him for his 6 years of service as President.
This year we are meeting 3 times in person. Those dates are April 9th, July 7th, and October 8th. These meetings are held from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Pinelands Alliance (previously called Pinelands Preservation Alliance), 17 Pemberton Road, Southampton NJ 08088. We encourage our members to attend these in-person meetings so you can meet the board in person and get an idea of what goes on behind the scenes.
We are continuing to listen to our members’ suggestions and are implementing them as we see fit. Keep them coming. Remember, this is your club!!
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Blowdowns! Blowdowns! Blowdowns! The Blizzard of ‘26 brought down the house so to speak. The crew was requested to join the NJ state trail stewards at Double Trouble SP to help clear over 100 downed trees on the Red and Purple trails. We answered the call on 3/10 and worked in a park new to us. We cleared a 4 mile section of the Batona in Brendan T Bryne SF on 3/17 and on 3/24 we cleared the Allen Rd boardwalk in Bass River SF. The work continues as there are hundreds of trees and brush down on our hiking trails.
Thank you to the crew for putting in the extra effort in getting our trails reopened. |
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For all our members who were introduced to the club by Facebook. We have another site that most of you have probably never seen.
It is a site that we fully control. You can find it by clicking ocsj.org
You will find NEW, NOTES, REMINDERS, Links to Facebook, Our Newsletters, Club Song and more.
Check out the drop down menus. You will see a List of Board Members with contacts, a Video of the Club’s first 50 years, Hiking pace, Paddle Video, X.C Ski Beginner info, Guide for cyclists-too much to list.
You will find Club Policies on this site.
Considering taking a leadership role- You will find Handbooks on what is involved.
Take a look |
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After a cold icy winter with many hikes cancelled, the weather is warming up. Ticks and chiggers wake up and look for meals - us. Chigger bites can cause intense itching and tick bites can cause serious illnesses. Use insect repellent, stay on the trail and avoid grassy areas. Tuck your pants into your socks. If you like to hike in sport sandals (as I do) spray your feet and sandals. If you hike in shoes or boots, spray them. Ticks do not climb up trees to drop down on our heads - that takes a lot of energy. They are hitchhikers who hang out on grass and branches and hitch a ride on animals and people. As you walk through bushes, grass or wooded areas, they get brushed onto you or your clothes, then they will crawl to your hair or to crevices on your body. Ticks & chiggers strongly prefer shady cooler areas over direct sunlight which dries them out. And what they prefer most of all is warm bodies. Use whatever precautions you prefer - insect spray, tucked in shirts, pants and sleeves, and check yourself when you get home. Ticks need to be on you for almost a day to transmit infection, chiggers can make you itch desperately in an hour or two. Notice I didn't say for an hour - you will itch intensely for a few days. Be careful and have fun out there! :-) |
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BACKPACKING/CAMPING NEWS Backpacking/Camping Chair Kevin Drevik Kdrevik@aol.com
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Backpacking/Camping is in full swing now that we are entering the 2nd quarter. Thanks to everyone who attended the “backpacker university” event. I hope everyone took advantage of the good deals (I saw backpacks going for 90%+ off, like $10 or $20). My thanks again to all the leaders who volunteered to teach.
We have four trips on the schedule for 2nd quarter, including a good one in the Pine Barrens (before it gets too hot). We also have two new leaders that will be coming on board shortly, so look for their trips in the coming months.
See you on the trails!
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Spring has sprung and hopefully better riding weather is on the way. For those of you, who like me, have probably not ridden your bike in a loooong time due to some of the worst winter weather we have seen in a while, now is the time to stop “thinking” about riding, and begin “actually” riding. First though, our bikes are probably in need of some serious spring cleaning and maintenance for the long riding season that lies ahead.
Getting your road bike ready for the season is one of the best ways to improve performance, prevent breakdowns, and extend the life of your components. A solid spring tune-up doesn’t require a full overhaul—just a focused check on the key systems.
Here ’s a practical, rider-friendly checklist:
1. Clean the Bike Thoroughly
Winter grime and storage dust can hide issues.
- Use mild soap, water, and a soft brush
- Degrease the drivetrain (chain, cassette, chainrings)
- Dry completely to prevent rust
A clean bike makes every other step easier and more effective.
2. Inspect the Frame & Components
- Look for safety issues before riding.
- Check frame for cracks (especially near welds)
- Inspect fork and rear stays
- Ensure bolts (stem, seat post, bottle cages) are tight
3. Drivetrain Tune-Up
This is where performance really improves. - Lubricate chain (after cleaning)
- Check chain wear (replace if stretched)
- Inspect cassette and chainrings for worn teeth
- Adjust front and rear derailleurs for smooth shifting
If shifting feels sluggish or noisy, cable tension may need adjusting.
4. Tires & Wheels
Your contact with the road—don ’t skip this.
- Inspect tires for cracks, cuts, or worn tread
- Inflate to recommended PSI (printed on tire sidewall)
- Spin wheels to check for wobbles (truing)
- Check quick releases or thru-axles are secure
5. Brake Check (Critical)
Safety first.
- Inspect brake pads for wear
- Ensure pads hit the rim or rotor evenly
- Test braking power and responsiveness
- For disc brakes: check rotor alignment and listen for rubbing
6. Cable & Housing Condition
- Often overlooked but crucial.
- Check for fraying or rust
- Replace if shifting or braking feels sticky
- Apply light lubrication where appropriate
7. Bearings & Moving Parts
Smoothness matters.
- Check headset (no wobble when braking and rocking bike)
- Spin cranks and wheels—listen for grinding
- Check bottom bracket and hubs for play
8. Fit & Contact Points
- Comfort = better riding.
- Adjust saddle height and angle
- Check handlebar alignment
- Re-wrap handlebar tape if worn
- Inspect pedals and cleats
9. Accessories & Electronics
If you use them:
- Charge bike computers, lights, and electronic shifting systems
- Replace batteries if needed
- Check mounts are secure
Optional: Professional Tune-Up
If anything feels off or you haven ’t serviced your bike in a year:
- A local shop can true wheels, replace cables, bleed brakes, etc.
- Worth it if you ride frequently or plan long trips
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Barbara is taking this month off. |
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KAYAKING/CANOEING NEWS
Kayaking/Canoeing Chair
Frank Pearce
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Outdoor recreation participation hit a record high in 2024, with 181.1 million Americans—nearly 59 percent of the population aged six and up—taking part in activities like hiking, camping and paddling.
The U.S. Coast Guard reported boating deaths on the whole were at a 50-year low.
The exception was paddling.
Paddling fatalities, accounted for about one in every three boating accidents in the United States last year. SUP fatalities surged 163 percent, to 40 people.
Drowning accounted for three-quarters of deaths, and 87 percent of drowning victims were not wearing life jackets.
Our policies are designed to keep you safe. |
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All of the science now points to the incredible health benefits of exercising outdoors as much as possible. Socializing while being outdoors is even better, especially as we age. And when a spouse or partner shares that activity, it’s a win-win-win. Susan and Ed Davenport, who joined OCSJ several years ago, recently signed on for the Grand Mile Challenge. Hikers who have traveled as distantly as Patagonia to pursue their love of the sport, they feel the goal of hiking 1,000 miles in a year will be easily conquered, since they have always walked a lot.
Ed will be leading backpacking trips for the club this year and Susan is hoping to take up kayaking soon. Here’s their story:
Q. Tell us about yourself.
ED: I was born in Belleville, in Essex County. We moved to Tabernacle 25 years ago and still live here today. I’m retired now but worked in IT infrastructure management for most of my career.
SUSAN: I was born and grew up in Rhode Island. I came to NJ for college and met Ed there almost 40 years ago! We have two grown sons who live locally. After a career in university administration, I am now a professor of management and leadership at Stockton University and plan to retire in 2027.
Q. When and why did you join the Outdoor Club? What benefits do you feel you’ve gained by belonging?
ED: We joined the outdoor club several years ago. I was involved in scouting with my sons, and really enjoyed the outdoors. I’ve enjoyed meeting and hiking with so many people it’s a just a great experience.
SUSAN: I love the opportunity to meet new people who also love to hike. We also like the opportunity to try new places we might not do on our own.
Q. Do you participate in other club activities besides hiking? Do you have favorite places to hike?
ED: I’m also a backpacker, and will be beginning to lead trips this year. I don’t really have a favorite place but enjoy the variety of places we go.
SUSAN: Only hiking for me right now, but I'm hoping to try kayaking this year. Batsto and Franklin Parker Preserve are my two favorite local places to hike.
Q. Do you hike year around? What made you join the Grand Mile Club? Do you think you’ll have trouble getting in the miles?
ED: Yes. I hike year round; winter is an excellent time to hike in the pines. We hike a lot and also do quite a bit of walking as exercise, so this year we decided to join the group. I don’t think it will be a problem making the miles.
SUSAN: I wanted to join the Gand Mile Club for some extra motivation. This winter has been tough so far, so it's nice to have some accountability.
Q. What do you feel are the benefits of outdoor activities and enjoying nature?
ED: I always feel reinvigorated when I’m out hiking or camping.
SUSAN: I always feel better being outdoors surrounded by nature. It helps me keep things in perspective and not worry so much about the next thing on my to do list.
Q. Do you take active vacations?
ED: Yes, we do. We just returned from a hiking vacation in Patagonia.
Q. Any places on your bucket list?
ED: The Dolomites, Nepal and Antarctica
SUSAN: We also hope to visit all 63 national parks. We have almost 30 right now.
Q. What are some of your other interests?
ED: Travel and photography and also history.
Q. Anything else you’d like to say about anything?
SUSAN: I'm looking forward to getting to know all of you as we pursue this goal together. Thanks for including us in the group! |
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Your OCSJ Volunteer Committee continues to be active in our efforts to provide social engagement activities and ensure new members are made welcome and supplied with relevant information. Our last New Member Outreach meeting was held on March 19th. Lots of pertinent questions were asked (for example Meetup, activity pace, etc.) and answered. We even picked up a new member to join our Volunteer Committee. The next Outreach meeting will be May 12th. Please be on the lookout for the Meetup post and join us, even if you are an established member. Some great information is shared.
On March 11th, Ro Mason and Diane Mason presented our first social event, an educational presentation about the Batona Trail (BAckTONAture). It was a photographic journey of the 53-mile trail that traverses three NJ state parks and the Franklin Parker Preserve. Highlights of the trail are TeaTime, Apple Pie Hill, Pakim Pond, Batsto Village, and Martha’s Furnace. Handouts included a trail map, access point information, and suggested hikes. Look for Batona hikes this spring. Join the waitlist for an April 2nd hike, starting at Pakin Pond. There’s a good chance you will be able to attend as plans change.
The next social event is a nature-drawing workshop on April 16th. Just a few on the waitlist at this writing, but please join the waitlist if interested. This workshop is being presented by award-winning illustrators, Allen and Susan Crawford, who are members of our club and are volunteering their time andexpertise to do this for us.
Our Volunteer Committee March meeting was held on the 24th. We discussed several possible spring events. Stay tuned. Please reach out to Barbara Berman at president@ocsj.org if you are interested in joining us on the committee. |
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What is this pay thing?? That is the question I hear most often from frustrated members. Meetup often makes it seem like you must pay to use their site. However, you never need to pay Meetup to access our OCSJ groups. There is no need to sign up for Meetup+ or click any box asking for money. If you run into this problem, carefully search your screen for a “continue with free” or “skip” link. This link will not be obvious. It will be near the top and very small. Clicking on this link should allow you to bypass the pay screen. OCSJ Meetup group members can avoid running into this issue. Always make sure you are logged into Meetup before exploring our events schedule. Look for your profile picture in the upper right-hand side of your screen. If you do not see your photo, log in and the group will recognize you. If you try to RSVP to an event, but are asked to “join” again, make sure you are logged in. |
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OFFICIAL OCSJ LOGO TSHIRTS |
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The Outdoor Club of South Jersey is happy to announce the availability of club T-Shirts through Print Shop Shirts. Ordering will be ongoing, submitted regularly when there is a quantity sufficient to place the order.
We have 13 different styles to choose from ranging from simple ring spun cotton shirts, moisture management/antimicrobial performance fabric, to moisture wicking to UPF sun protection. Short sleeve and long sleeve with many different colors to choose from. Choose from full back printing only, or front left breast printing only, or both front & back printing.
The ordering process from Print Shop Shirts is simple:
Go to OCSJ Store |
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If you know of an OCSJ member who would benefit from receiving a card of congratulations for a milestone birthday, life event or a note of condolence, contact the Corresponding Secretary and a card will be sent on behalf of the club. |
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Want to submit a "Shout Out"? Have you experienced a leader on an event that exceeded your expectations? Has a particular person gone above and beyond in their capacity as a leader or a participating member of OCSJ and you want to let everyone know? Tell about your experience in an email to Maura Mawn and it will be published in our next Newsletter.
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A new year means setting new goals. How about hiking 1,000 miles?
The Grand Mile Club (GMC) is for members who love a challenge! The rules are simple, but it takes grit and determination to finish. Each outing, be it walking, running, hiking, or treadmill, must be a minimum of 2 miles. To reach the lofty 1,000 miles in a year, you will need to be logging 84 miles per month. There is a little more to it, so if you are interested in joining the elite GMC, contact Jenny Buffington at jbuffington924@gmail.com for more details. Registration closes at the end of January. I'm looking forward to hearing from you! 500/750 Club
If you are not quite up to 1,000 miles, then consider aiming for 500/750 miles. The rules are the same as the 1,000 club, except there is a minimum of 1 mile per outing. At the end of each month, I'll email a reminder to send in your miles and then update and send you a spreadsheet showing each member’s total to date. If interested in joining, contact Ann Palaitis at palaitis@verizon.net for more details.
Paddling
The OCSJ Canoe/Kayak Mileage Club is for paddlers who like to set personal goals. Any canoe/kayak trip counts with any group or individual. For details go to Paddling Mileage Club. Contact Frank Pearce, Paddle Chair, at hornet71@verizon.net for more details. |
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"THE OCSJ MARKET PLACE" the place to BUY-SELL-GIVE-BORROW |
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The OCSJ Market Place
Rules for posting items for sale INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: - Description of item for sale (Outdoor related)
- Asking price
- 1 or 2 pictures of items
- Contact information: seller's name, phone# and/or email
For Sale 14 ft sit-in Calypso kayak w/rudder. $400 used. Includes paddle and Thule J rack. |
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Your club is made up entirely of volunteers. You will get more out of it, if you put more into it! There are many opportunities to help behind the scenes and on activities. Ask your leader about it on your next event. Let them know if you have any time or talents you would like to share with the club.
Board of Trustees - The OCSJ Board meets on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 7 pm. Currently, our meetings are on ZOOM. To attend the meetings, contact the OCSJ President Barbara Berman, at president@ocsj.org.
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Outdoor Club of South Jersey (OCSJ) Membership Information
There are several convenient ways to join or renew your OCSJ membership:
Online
- Visit ocsj.org or download the Wild Apricot mobile app.
- Click the “Join OCSJ Here” button and follow the on-screen instructions.
By Mail
- Mail a check payable to Outdoor Club of South Jersey to:
Outdoor Club of South Jersey
PO Box 74
Oceanville, NJ 08231
Membership Levels
- Family Membership – $25.00
One-year subscription; no automatic renewal
- Family Membership (Auto-Renewal) – $25.00
One-year subscription; automatic annual renewal
- Single Membership – $20.00
One-year subscription; no automatic renewal
- Single Membership (Auto-Renewal) – $20.00
One-year subscription; automatic annual renewal
For membership-related questions, please contact us at membership@ocsj.org.
Renewal Information
OCSJ memberships are valid for one year. Renewal reminders will be sent to the email address on file 30 days prior, 15 days prior, and on your renewal date.
If your membership is not renewed by your anniversary date, Wild Apricot, our membership management system, will automatically lapse and archive your account, and you will be removed from the club’s Meetup pages shortly thereafter.
To ensure uninterrupted access to club activities, please renew promptly. We also recommend checking your spam or junk folders, as renewal notices may occasionally be filtered there.
If you need to update your account information—especially your email address—please log in to your Wild Apricot account to make the necessary changes. You may also email updates or questions to membership@ocsj.org.
Renewal by Check
- Make checks payable to Outdoor Club of South Jersey
- Mail to:
OCSJ Membership Secretary
PO Box 74
Oceanville, NJ 08231
Please note that mailed checks may take up to two weeks to be received and deposited. Online renewals are processed much faster.
Thank you for renewing your membership promptly and for being part of our vibrant community of outdoor enthusiasts.
Rosemarie (Ro) Mason
Membership Secretary
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CALLING ALL CLUB MEMBERS!!
Do you have a favorite place that you have hiked, but maybe it isn’t in New Jersey? Or maybe you have taken a bike ride holiday at some distant locale that you were in awe of because of its beauty or serenity. Perhaps an amazing kayaking adventure, backpack trip or cross country skiing trip is something you have been lucky enough to partake in. If so, the Club newsletter is looking for short articles from our members to share their experiences with our readers.
If you would like to share some of your experiences, just send a short article to our newsletter editor, Markie Kaczorowski by email to newsletter@ocsj.org, preferably no more than 250 words explaining the “what, where, and when” the trip took place and what made it special. |
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