As you've been cycling around the country side, hiking the Buckeye Trail with a full pack, enjoying the scenery on Rocky Fork, have you ever wondered how the Columbus Council began?

On October 3, 1939, the first meeting of what we now know as Columbus Outdoor Pursuits was held. The 21 persons had been "gathered together out of a common interest in hiking and bicycling trips and Youth Hostels."

They decided on a committee of workers that would be formed that would be a nucleus for all future action.

On November 5, 1939 National AYH Directors, Isabel and Monroe Smith, and the Field Worker for the Great Lakes Region, Justin Cline, held a special conference in Columbus at which they explained the organization of national and its' districts. The local Columbus group, which had attracted additional members, became known as the Buckeye Trails District Committee, AYH. The boundaries of this District were Marion on the north, Dayton on the west, Portsmouth on the south, Marietta on the southeast and Cambridge on the east. These were people with a vision who had worked tirelessly to make it become a reality. Hosteling in Central Ohio was promoted on every front: they made speeches; showed films to youth, recreation, and civic groups; displays and booths were set up at various county fairs and sports shows; news releases were given to the newspapers and radio stations. Community leaders gave moral support to the infant organization. In addition, the members of the Columbus group worked with key people in each of nine communities where they hoped a hostel would eventually be located.

By summer of 1940, hosteler memberships in Ohio had increased appreciably and five hostels along a loop were opened to Hostlers. These were located in Pataskala (on Frank Grable property about 3 miles SE of Pataskala), Granville, Lancaster, Rock House (State Forester's Lodge) and Circleville (on a farm of Ralph Boggs', six miles south near Scioto River.)

"Youth Hostel Trails" were planned with the Central Ohio Hiking Club marking a hiking trail from Lancaster to Rock House. The Franklin Bicycle Club laid out a back roads bike trail from Columbus to Pataskala. And the Pataskala Hostel Club laid out a bike trail from Pataskala to Lancaster. Trail markers were seven inch equilateral white triangles, painted or nailed on suitable supports, with white arrows underneath pointing the way to the nearest hostel.

By September 30, 1940 there were 287 hostlers in Ohio, most of whom lived within the Buckeye Trails District. There had been 27 overnights at hostels, at least 60 stories about hosteling had been published in newspapers throughout Central Ohio, a movie had been filmed by OSU ("Along Buckeye Trails", centering on a youth trip of September, 1940), speakers had addressed 47 gatherings and had written and received over 2500 letters. The Council had a booth at the Ohio State Fair that was very successful in reaching individuals and potential Hostel operators.

How here organizers of the local AYH Committee to know that a war would soon drain off most of its' leadership? At this crucial point, "Doc" Wilbur Batchelor, OSU School of Social Administration, not only assumed the Chairmanship but provided trip leaders from recreation classes.

In 1943, the Columbus group supported 9 hostels: Griggs, Westerville, Worthington, Lancaster and the previous five. At this time a hostel might be a barn or a garage made liveable and furnished with cots, blankets and a heater. Work holidays were participated in by students and others "as of result of which essential improvements were made." Fireplaces were built, screen doors were hung, and the buildings given a thorough cleaning. In 1944 two hostels opened on an year round basis: one at Griggs Dam and the other at the farm of Lynn Rohrbaugh near Delaware.

Membership in the 40's differed from what it is today: it consisted almost exclusively of college age students. The number of members was around 50. This number of members was not sufficient to keep hostels in use and many of the houseparents grew discouraged and closed their hostels.

According to Al Orcutt, the Buckeye Trails Committee might have folded despite their struggle to survive, were it not for the support of organizations, like the Central Ohio Hiking Club and the YMCA, which permitted them use of phone and of office space.

An Executive Secretary was hired in July, 1943 for $150 per month. She was available until sometime in 1944 when she went into war service.

In 1944 there were hostels at Dennison University and New Marshville (Clayton Ranch). The treasurer continued to report income and expenditures in the $400 per year range. The club was headquartered at the OSU School of Social Administration with information about the club available at Ohio State Museum.

The "Rolling Hostel" came into existence at the time, operated by the national organization. It consisted of a sleeper railroad car, named Colonist, which was heated by a wood burning stove and posed equally simple sleeping accommodations. A train would deliver their car to a city, drop it off on a siding, from whence they would start off in the morning by bicycle to tour the city or country.

In the summer of 1945, Dr. Batchelor, Merriss Cornell and Mayer Rosenfeld led the Rolling Hostel from Northfield, Massachusetts. In Montreal, the group moved into their "rolling" home... They rolled westward across Canada: Ottawa, North Bay, Saskatoon and Calgary. At this point they left their sleeper and proceeded by Canadian Pacific to Baniff, Edmonton and Jasper. On this leg of the trip, their purpose was to scout for desirable locations for hostels. One can only try to only appreciate their accomplishment when one realizes they were riding single speed Schwinn over dirt roads.

Feelings about AYH were expressed by several members through a paper written by Wakie Buchanan in 1946 and titled "On Youth Hostelling." "... The fun of good fellowship goes hand in hand with folk music, games and dances which are particularly appropriate to the spirit of hostelling. Hostlers introduced to the folk way for the first time experience the thrill of creative achievement, gaining appreciation of other's creations. The zest of adventure in and out of one's own community is one of the factors propelling hostelling. Traditions of friendliness and reliance gain hostlers acceptance away from home...."

In 1948 there were six hostels: Griggs, Westerville, Granville, Conkles Hollow, Camp Yohio and Camp Indianola near Revenge. The office was moved to the YWCA. There were twelve hostel trips. One bicycle trip started at 4:30 AM from Indianola and Oakland Park and went to Newark by way of Granville.

The spring Rally was held at Camp Buchsieb, near Groveport. It was billed as a "typical" AYH get-together with games, movies, square dancing and refreshments. Transportation to and from the Rally was generally by Schwinn.

The most frequent trip made at that time left Alum Creek and Livingston Avenue at 6:30 P.M. on a Friday via bicycle, with an overnight spent at Camp Buchsieb [on Groveport Road 2 miles east of Obetz]. On Saturday, the group cycled through many of the Hocking State Parks and on to either Camp Indianola or Conkles Hollow Hostel. Other popular trips of the day started from the steps of the Ohio Historical Museum at 15th and High. The group usually headed north to Hayden Falls or the zoo and an overnight at Indian Camp Hostel, or east to Granville Hostel and on to Newark for a look at the mounds. Summer hikers refreshed themselves after their walk with a swim in the lake at Camp Indianola or in Blackjack Lake.

Each spring, work trips were scheduled for the purpose of cleaning and making the needed repairs on the hostels located on the Buckeye Trail which was not the current hiking trail by the same name.

During the cold days of winter, Columbus AYHers did not concern themselves much about what clothing was best for keeping off a chill, for sufficient heat was generated on the floor of the YMCA during Saturday night square dances called by Jim Wagner.

In the winter of '49-'50 activities included: square dancing, bike riding when the streets were not icy and it was not raining, hikes to the woods, downhill skiing, skating and eating. Summer time included the same activities plus swimming.

Extended trips were popular with many people going to Canada, Europe and to the east coast of the USA.

The name was changed to Columbus Council, American Youth Hostels, Inc. sometime in 1950.

On April 16, 1952 a formal constitution was approved by unanimous approval. This constitution had been drawn up by Blain Ingram and John Shaw.

Hostels were on the wane. Only Camp Buchsieb and Indian Camp remained open in 1952.

Membership increased from 117 in 1951 to 170 in 1952. Four pass holders took nationally sponsored trips in the Americas and ten in Europe.

During the early years there were work parties each spring and some during the summer to fix up the hostels, that were a lot of fun. Spreading the word about Columbus Council was a constant item of discussion in both the newsletter and in the minutes. Travel to outings was not always done under their own power, but was often by car.

The description from the "Youth Hostelling on Buckeye Trials" newsletter from Summer 1952 will give some idea of a typical bike trip in 1952.

"An enthusiastic group of hostlers gathered at 15th and High on Saturday May 3, at 2 P.M. for the start of a weekend at Indian Camp.

After a short stop at the University barns and a brief lesson on 'how not to cross railroad tracks' we proceeded to Gabel's Dairy (on Godown Road), where their products were judged up to their usual high standard. Our next stop was Indian Camp where we were joined by Marilyn Fankhauser and Arthur Bedford. While part of the group aired and sunned blankets the rest went for food. We enjoyed a somewhat late but satisfying meal and an evening of surprising coolness.

Ann Gustin and Jane Shepard drove out and joined us for Pat Newman breakfast on Sunday, while Jean Werts, Alice Beardsley and Connie Johnson biked out. After closing up the camp we cycled to Hilliard where at the village drug store further steps in support of the dairy industry were taken. We returned by way of the Campbell Mound on McKinley Avenue. (One of the outstanding works of the prehistoric Mound Builders in this area.)"

On a nationally sponsored New England trip in the summer of 1952, 10 girls traveled 1200 miles in six weeks by bicycle and limited their expenditures to $115 for each person. The Columbus attender Helen Feinberg said "traveling by bicycle puts you in direct contact with people; we talked to policemen, ministers and construction workers. They were curious to see ten girls clad in pedal pushers and shorts riding bicycles loaded with saddle and sleeping bags." They slept on straw mattresses in quarters ranging from chicken coops on a New Hampshire farm to a settlement house in the heart of Boston.

In 1953 passes cost $4 for an adult or $2 for an associate membership that allowed you all the advantages except staying overnight at a hostel.

A progressive food-hike was described in the Spring 1953 issue of "Youth Hostels on Buckeye Trails". The meal was consumed at homes of the Shaw's, Newman's, Beardsley's and Heckscher's. A film was shown at one house and at the last house a square dance proceeded for many hours.

Local trips went to Dublin, Camp Pioneer on Leesburg Lake, Eckels Lake, Lake Hope, Lake Pike, Lithopolis, Westerville, Madison Lake, Whetstone Park ancient Indian Works, Mohican State Forest, Indian Lake, Yellow Springs, Olentangy River from W. North Broadway to Worthington and to many members homes for socials with slide shows, square dancing and food. Another popular activity was folk dancing at the YWCA and one trip went to the Oglebay Folk Festival near Wheeling, West Virginia.

A trailer was donated to the organization and a few individuals worked hard to convert it into a bike trailer. This allowed the group to plan trips further away with the trailer carrying the bikes out of Columbus before starting the ride.

In 1954 there was a chain of hostels across Ohio from Pennsylvania to Indiana, Gandhi Hostel near Parkman, Wooster Hostel, Mansfield Hostel, Westerville Youth Hostel, Indian Camp Hostel, Yellow Springs Hostel and Brookville Hostel. There were several other hostels in Ohio beside these.

In 1995 a booklet titled "Hostelling In Ohio" was prepared and included maps of cycling routes in Ohio.

A six week canoe school was held at Griggs Dam taught by the Red Cross under the direction of Jim Nelson of AYH.

A women's three speed English type bicycle was purchased for $35.00 to rent for 35 cents per hour or $2.00 per day and $1.00 per each additional concurrent day.

National AYH sponsored 25 different trips in America and to Europe and Asia in 1955. A typical trip was 4 weeks of bicycling Switzerland and Rhine Valley for $760 by air or $565 by ship.

Two times a year a program planning meeting was held to decide on trips for the coming six months. With the semi annual planning the "Columbus Hostel News" was published monthly as a post card and "Youth Hostelling on Buckeye Trails" was published quarterly. These were the newsletters for the Council.

The first Lake Erie Island (South Bass Island) trip was held on August 13 & 14, 1955. Bicycling around the island, trying to canoe around the island, hiking, swimming, eating and camping out were the activities.

At the April 19, 1956 meeting the YMCA "asked whether we are aiding the YMCA program and emphasis of Christian Emphasis. How many of our group are members?" After lengthy discussion it was decided that "AYH had many members teaching folk dancing, arts and crafts, art appreciation and others. Some folks also live at the Y. Since we are a state and National organization we might find it hard to insist that all members join Columbus Y.... Every person felt we did stress Christian Emphasis as much as is feasible within such a diverse group and should leave things as they were." A motion was passed instructing "trip leaders to provide information of church facilities while on trips and attempt to assist those who are desirous of holding informal service." Also it was noted that the Columbus Council AYH "Constitution provided for a Chaplin, if group provides to elect same." So they accepted volunteer John Hall as Chaplin.

One method of publicity used at this time was placing tags on bicycles at OSU telling about AYH. They had a very good response from this effort. There was continuing effort each year to get on radio and television and have stories written in the paper about AYH. A state wide coverage with posters was accomplished. Apparently this was successful as the membership continued to grow to about 100.

The sum of $600 (when completed it actually cost $942) was appropriated to build a hostel near Burr Oak Lake on the Sunday Creek Coal Company land. The company let AYH use the land for $1.00 per year. The members spent many a day here constructing the building. A well was dug and an outhouse was installed. Many parts of the building were pre-cut in Columbus during the winter and transported to the site in a partially finished condition. The hostel was to accommodate 18 people in two bunk rooms and have an 14 foot by 20 foot recreation room. The lease was signed on October 26, 1956. It was noted in the secretaries minutes that the lease "must be paid within 10 days each year and renewal of contract must be accomplished 30 days prior to the termination date in 1961 month of September." The second vice-president was responsible for seeing that this fee was paid without notice from the lessee.

The Council also undertook the building of canoes for Council rental. They were to be made of wood frame and cloth exterior, somewhat like a kayak. The building cost was to be between $30 and $40.

The April 1956 "Youth Hostelling on Buckeye Trails" told a story of trying to establish a tradition of not canceling a trip because of the weather. It seems that on Sunday, March 18 a canoe trip had snow with cold wind and the trip went the entire 12 miles down the Hocking. This included one dunking brought on by ramming a downed tree that was seen too late.

A canoe trip for six people on the Mohican River saw not one other canoe on the stream as they went from Mohican State Park to Greer and then the next day on to Cavallo. A review of the trip called it as "undoubtedly the best to be found in Ohio and compared favorably with Michigan and Canada. The river ran between high wooded banks through remote back-woods country. The water was fast enough to be of some help in paddling, but not too difficult even for rank amateurs."

By 1957 the number of chartered hostels had dropped to two; Glen Helen and Burr Oak.

The National AYH offered a Scholarship/Leadership program to six European Youth Hostel Leaders each year. One of the six generally came to Columbus where the local AYH provided room and board and some spending money as they joined in the trips and provided in return an insight as to what Hostelling was like in Europe.

A letter from National clarified that only leaders and Council were covered by liability insurance and then only if all participants on a trip were carrying their pass.

Six bike trips were listed: from Franklin Park to Hoover Dam, OSU to Scioto River at Bethel Road, through Worthington, YMCA to Camp Buchsieb, to Yellow Springs overnight and South Bass Island camp out. There were 3 canoe trips listed.

At Glen Helen the activities were: "bicycling, attending Antioch Theater, hiking through Glen Helen and John Bryan State Park.

The Council spent $1.00 per life jacket for materials and made their own. They made it mandatory that all canoers must wear the jackets between November 1 and May 1. During the summer if they passed the swimming test they did not need to wear a life jacket.

Two shows on TV and an article in the Magazine section of the Sunday paper were part of the excellent publicity the Council received. A spot announcement on the "Early Worm" and "Dean Lewis" radio shows about bicycle trips added to the publicity.

An ice box was free, except for the $4 trailer cost to haul it to the Burr Oak Hostel.

The Council agreed to have about ten boys at a time have a fun weekend at Burr Oak Hostel in exchange for their working on a hostel project.

Columbus Council was represented at the first meeting of ten people who got together in January 1958 to plan a trail called "Buckeye Trail."

Columbus Council joined the American Whitewater Association.

A new hostel was chartered. The Lewis Center Hostel was an old hunting lodge that could accommodate 16 hostlers. The first hostlers were bicyclists from Columbus who enjoyed the weekend by visiting a collection of privately owned steam locomotives near the intersection of SR 3 and Lewis Center Road. They also dug sassafras roots for their tea, picked giant strawberries, and stopped at the Worthington Railway Museum on their way back.

Bill Nelson, National Field Representative visited Columbus in April. He spoke at the Jewish Center and OSU Student Union, to further the hosteling movement.

A successful joint trip with Pittsburgh Council was held at Seneca Lake. Activities included swimming, hiking, canoeing, picnicking, and a real country style square dance. There was a most successful three day, Labor day weekend, canoe trip on the Tippecanoe River in Indiana. A hosteling weekend to Yellow Springs included bicycling, hiking, tennis, volleyball and folk dancing with Antioch students.

The first Leadership School was held at Glen Helen Hostel on March 7-8, 1959 for 22 persons. Topics covered were: trip leadership, canoe safety, food planning and preparation, trip organization, first aid, bicycle care, repair and safety, and ecological relationships in nature.

Youth Hostel Week was held in 1959. Ohio Governor Michael DiSalle and Columbus Mayor Maynard Sensenbrenner each issued proclamations about youth hostels. There were articles in the Akron Beacon Journal and Columbus Dispatch. The Dispatch article was in the magazine section and was about canoeing.

On the 25th anniversary of AYH there were 20 councils in 14 states and 97 hostels in 23 states.

Columbus president Don Steer reported "during the past year has seen a swing from biking to canoeing and camping out, and that our hostels were used more when we were biking more."

Canoe trips were held on the Cumberland River in Pennsylvania and Huron River near Ann Arbor, Michigan.

On April 5, 1959 a canoe trip was held on the Licking River where the new Dillon Dam was being built. This was a "last chance" outing for 23 people to enjoy the scenic beauty of this river. The crew traveled from near Nashport to the dam site. A sailing party composed of 30 people met at the sailing area of Hoover Reservoir in September. 'Doc' Batchelor's sailboat and canoes were used to transport members across the reservoir. After hiking and canoeing in the immediate vicinity of 'Doc' Batchelor's cabin the group made a tour of the rustic cabin and adjourned outdoors around the campfire to relish an original Bernie Weiss' concoction of chili and rice, garnished with pickles and olives with soft drinks and hot beverages to drink, polished off with the delicacy of honeydew melon. It was a delightful event.

A Southern Ohio Special provided a bicycle outing for five bicyclists on the first week long-trip sponsored by Columbus Council. The cyclists traveled from Lewis Center to Glen Helen to Old Man's Cave to Lake Hope to Lewis Center. A sag wagon with trailer went along. Therefore in bad weather and when the bicyclists tired they could have the benefit of riding in the car.

Tony Pranses, National president, visited Columbus and "stated that hostels are weak in that councils are leader oriented rather than program oriented, and that it seems strange that such a large city as Columbus should have only one council."

SKI

On February 20-22 on Washington's Birthday weekend the Council's first ever ski week-end was held in conjunction with the Detroit Council. Twenty four Columbus AYHers traveled to Caberfare near Cadillac, Michigan by five cars. Renting five cabins for the group, they shared cooking in the usual AYH fashion. The total cost for 3 overnights, 3 breakfasts, 2 dinners, transportation and trip fees was $23.05 per person.

"Several AYHers accompanied by some Central Ohio Grotto (COG) spelunkers descended into the nether regions Saturday, March 12. Ascended would have been more appropriate, since we had to climb an exhausting hill overlooking Carter City, Kentucky, before gaining entrance to the caves. The first cave visited, the larger of the two, was Cow Cave (known locally as Spring Cave). We were greeted near the entrance by a splendid array of ice stalactites and ice stalagmites. Walking along the icy floor of the passage, we soon came to a place where we could gain access to the upper level. Here we climbed up an old rickety stair and scrambled across a sort of ledge into a fissure which lead to a crawl passage. Much to the enjoyment of certain spelunkers, and to the consternation of some novices, caves are not always built on a horizontal plane. One of the interesting aspects of this cave is the many entrances. So, every once in a while we would see daylight ahead, poke our heads out to survey the landscape, and then duck back in for more caving. After pushing through Sloans Misery, came upon an entrance which was only a few feet from the main entrance to the cave. The other cave called Counterfeit Cave, had an even more impressive ice formation near the entrance. This cave was dry inside and the passages were, for the most part, walkable.. Although it was a rather rugged trip the AYHers withstood the ordeal admirably; some of them were even so polite as to pretend that they enjoyed it."

This spring a new type of AYH trip - the after-work bicycle ride - was inaugurated in Columbus by Roy Meyers. The trips involve leisurely browsing through places around the city. Did some sightseeing around the University farm area as well as the student housing area on the Olentangy River Road, along a footpath and adjacent street just east of the Olentangy River to Whetstone Park, and to the north of the Ohio State Fairgrounds and then rolled through Walhalla Canyon.

On Memorial Day weekend a canoe trip was led out of from Camp Nelson Dodd ( YMCA camp near Brinkhaven). On Saturday, the Clear Fork of the Mohican and the Black Fork of the Mohican were run from Mohican State Park to Camp Dodd. On Sunday, they went from camp to Mohawk Dam with its difficult portage. While most portaged around the dam the following description provides an answer for those unwilling to portage. "The flood gates looked too low to provide sufficient clearance. The trip leader could not resist, so after practicing squatting below the gunwales, he headed into the most promising gate and just barely made it through. The gate led into a huge tunnel about 20 feet wide, 10 feet high and 500 feet long. At the end there is a fast chute and a huge standing wave for the best thrill of all. Three others also navigated the dam and described it as the highlight of the trip, but was not recommended as a standard practice.

Saint John Catchpool, founder of England and Wales Youth Hostel Association and former president of IYHF visited Columbus. He provided a strong impetus for hosteling in Ohio, and in addition to regaling his listeners with facts about hosteling he also injected his own special brand of humor regarding his thoughts concerning the movement and his experiences.

On a island-hopping bicycle trip a group stayed at East Harbor State Park, South Bass Island, Kelley's Island and Castalia. The longest ride was 25 miles around the East Harbor area. To get to Kelley's Island they chartered a plane to fly the six people and six bikes at a top speed of 25 miles per hour. On Kelley's Island the state park was nothing but a jungle of poison ivy. The return from Kelley's Island was by ferry.

The Pine River, a fast, clear, cool trout stream near Cadillac Michigan, is considered by the experienced Detroit AYH canoeists as the most exciting and difficult canoeing streams in Lower Michigan. On July 1 and 2 five Columbus AYHers embarked on the infamous Pine with much anxiety, a few qualms, and with a hot sun overhead. Even though the River was somewhat lower than usual, the current was still faster than one could back paddle in most places. During most of the trip the current was an enjoyable three to five mph, however for five miles the current more than doubled its speed and kept the canoes on guard trying to avoid rocks and trees.

A report on battling the mosquitoes on the Tippecanoe River in Indiana. "After a few hours the rain subsided and our battle with the fallen trees began. We went around them, under them, and sometimes through them. It is my contention that the fallen trees are caused by the mosquitoes, who chew at the roots of trees until they fall into the stream. Then while we unfortunate canoeists are fighting our way through the branches, the mosquitoes sting us. We were up against a clever adversary to be sure."

At the annual membership meeting on October 7, 55 persons meet at the Lewis Center Hostel to enjoy a steak dinner and voted for the formal incorporation of the Council.

For the first time in several years a horseback riding trip (overnight) was held, and by the end of the year it was reported to be a major activity. And for the first time a rock climbing trip was held, with the site being Clifton Gorge.

A canoe trip by 6 Columbus AYHers went on the south fork of the Cumberland River starting at Oneida Tennessee. They say this is two hours closer than the good rivers of West Virginia or Michigan and this is more spectacular. "Departing from a white sand beach we paddled leisurely and enjoyed the scenery. Huge boulders dotted the river bed; limestone cliffs towered above us, as we floated on the clean green water of a secluded steam in the Cumberland National Forest. The water was lower than usual and the rapids were class I and II, i.e., big riffles, easily handled. At mid-morning we portaged a class IV rapids. The danger here was not so much swamping as dashing one's head against the sharp rocks that lined the narrow passage. By afternoon the riffles became fewer and we paddled long stretches of flat water with little current. We camped on a sandy spot near the state line. A small waterfall in the spring-fed stream that flowed nearby provided cool showers at the end of a long hot day. The next day we had more and bigger rapids, requiring considerable maneuvering to avoid the rocks."

The annual National meeting took place at Glen Helen Hostel ,hosted by Columbus Council. The theme was "Hosteling, Key to Outdoor Adventure". Twenty two Councils were represented. Columbus Council received a citation for having increased its membership 41%. The Distinguished Service Award was presented to Interior Secretary Stuart Udall. Business at the meeting included the establishment of a capital improvement fund, the approval of certain minimum standards for hostels, agreement by all councils to use the National emblem uniformly (it was reported that there were 500 different emblems in use?), and some recommendations regarding the broadening the use of a group pass.

An optimistic group of AYHers gathered at the Nelson's on March 10th to prepare the equipment for spring. After dining on excellent "pot luck" they were entertained with selected readings from Winnie the Pooh by Marilyn Warner and Roy Meyers.

John Wagnitz led a very hardy group on a backpack trip in March. Although hindered by ice and floods, they visited both Burr Oak and Community Camp Hostels.

Chilly weather didn't dampen the Kokosing River trip. Twenty three people canoed this lovely river near Gambier.

The canoeing season continued with the Red River trip near Sky Bridge in Kentucky, the Mohican river trip on Memorial Day, and practice rapids on Paint Creek. And then the fabulous Cumberland River, Kentucky trip. The scouting weekend (Oct. 12-13) to the Youghiogheny was a real delight. This is a sparking clean river with interesting but not difficult rapids.

Paul Suttner led another group backpacking on the Buckeye Trail in early June.

The traditional South Bass Island trip featured a glimpse of the eclipse this year. This trip was followed by a relaxing week-end at Community Camp Hostel."

Dan Burden led a bike ride to Madison Lake on Sept. 8, 1963.

A Winter Festival was held in December at Charlie Pace's cabin in the Hocking Hills.

In 1963 there were 21 day trips with 306 trippers, 16 overnight trips with 181 trippers, 14 non-travel events with 278 participants, pass sales of 516 and liquid assets of $2226. The trips broke down to 2 ski, 13 canoe, 7 bike, 7 hostel, 6 hike and 1 other trip.

Columbus Council became a Class "C "Council that entitled them to one additional vote on the National Council meeting and they were no longer on probation.

The Dublin Community AYH Club was chartered on January 10 as the first hostel club in the Columbus Area. It was open to anyone under 21 years of age in the Washington Local School District. Others followed with the Cleveland Hostel Club and Toledo Hostel Club organized in 1964.

"The sport of cycling is undergoing a major change with the advent of the club bicycle, a cycle which has been introduced during the last decade and which shares many features with the racing cycle. The Columbus Council AYH, being a highly mobile group and recognizing the change, appointed a committee to look into the move toward this new cycling machine. The one-man cycling information committee, Dan Burden, gives the following report: 'The cycling enthusiast, be he male or female, young or old, has a pleasant surprise awaiting him when he mounts the club cycle for the first time. After he adjusts himself to the narrow seat, the dropped handlebars, the high pressure tires and the 10 or more gears, he will find himself cruising along at speeds of 10 to 15 miles per hour with ease he never dreamed possible. He will soon find himself taking weekend trips, searching out rolling hills and attacking winds which keep most cyclists off the roads, and returning home not dead but feeling more physically fit and relaxed than when he left. In creating the club bike, the cycling industry has combined a knowledge of physiology and physics to produce a machine which meets the needs of the serious cyclo-tourist. The funny looking contraption, although appearing uncomfortable, is in reality more comfortable than the popular three-speed bike. It definitely is not a machine which you can ride around the block and then accept. It takes serious adjustment after becoming accustomed to the regular touring bike. It is an expensive piece of equipment, with a good bicycle costing around $100, and therefore should not be purchased hastily."

An eleventh night party was held at Marilyn and Scott Warner's house where participants brought their Christmas trees for a huge bon fire and festive evening.

A lady from Helsinki, Finland joined the Council and started a cross country ski program. She listed 8 reasons why a person should prefer to cross country rather than downhill. 1-Less likely to get hurt, 2-No more strenuous than hiking and not much harder to learn, 3-No waiting for ski lift, 4-The skier uses more of the body, 5-Not restricted to crowded slopes, 6-The cost is lower, 7-You can use cross-country skis for downhill but not visa versa, and 8-It is more fun.

The annual Lake Erie Island trip was held at Kelly's Island with Charlie Pace and Dan Burden in charge.

A bicycle committee headed by Pat Deason was organized with the "responsibilities of establishing and marking bicycle routes in the Central Ohio area; mapping bicycle tours in Ohio, using both the marked routes and other suitable routes; conducting qualification runs and keeping records; maintaining council bicycles and trailer; taking part in trip planning and leading."

An increasing number of ski trips were held this year than in the past. They went to Western Pennsylvania (8 trippers) and Northern Michigan with (30 trippers). There were many Wednesday and Friday night trips to Mansfield for downhill skiing, but also some cross-country skiing.

On September 20, 1965 the monthly meetings of the Council started to be held at the Center Of Science and Industry. Until this time they were held in members' home or at the YMCA.

The Council had a number of international trips each year. In 1965 there were trips to Lake Timagami in Ontario Canada and several Columbus Hostlers went on a National trip to Russia, England and seven different European countries on a one month tour.

Glen Helen, Union County, Licking County, Delaware County, Kentucky Tour, Southern Ohio, Logan County, Knox County, Cuyahoga County, Fairfield County, Burr Oak, Southeastern Ohio, Ross County, Mohican, Muskingum County, Mt. Pleasant, Highland County, Kelly's Island, and Niagara Falls were just some of the bicycling trips led in the spring and summer. In addition, qualification rides of 25 miles in 3 hours, 50/5, 75/7 and 100/10 were led.

New River Gorge, Wild Flower, Hocking Hills, Burr Oak, Tree Identification, Lake Hope, Litterbug, were just some of the hikes this year.

The streams that canoeists used this year were the: Mohican River, Miami River, Paint Creek, Kokosing River, Big Darby Creek, Greenbrier River, Olentangy River, Elk River, Cumberland River, Youghiogheny River, Manistee River, Scioto River, and Pine River. There was a wilderness trip to Timagami Provincial Forest of Ontario, Canada.

Caving, horseback riding, sailing and social events were also popular activities.

The Hosteler started coming out monthly. Previously it had come out every three months with a monthly post card. It was no longer printed at the YMCA, but by a commercial printer.

HOCKING RIVER CHRISTMAS CANOE TRIP

The first time the Buckeye Hosteler lists the Christmas canoe trip on the Hocking River was on December 26, 1965. Fred Appleton and Charlie Pace were the leaders saying be prepare for snow, sleet, hail, and maybe a little sun.

Starting in 1966 canoeing instruction included 1) 15 hour Red Cross basic canoeing course for beginners, 2) A weekend river canoeing course covering advanced whitewater canoeing strokes, canoeing safety, rescue procedures, and river reading, 3) A Red Cross canoeing instructors course. To make use of this knowledge there were one or two trips each weekend.

Scott Warner designed a triangle to be worn by bicyclists on their back. This device came to be know as a Fanny Bumper. The Columbus Council required all bike riders to wear it on Council bicycle events.

The Council purchased a mold and the materials to make their own C-1 canoe. Also, members could buy the materials and rent the mold in order to make their own.

Columbus Cavers Return Victorious After Southern Campaign" by War Correspondent: Greg Siple

Led by four-star general Dan Burden, 22 Columbus AYH cavers spent the three day New Year's weekend in battle with caves of Carter County, Kentucky. The first attack occurred at 1200 hours on Friday with a direct frontal assault on Cow Hill. After reaching the top, the cavers poured into Cow & Counterfeit Caves. After several hours, complete control was achieved.

A strategic withdrawal was made to Bat Cave where headquarters were established and equipment was made ready for the evening attacks on H₂O and Laurel Caves which were eventually successful. Defensive positions were established in Bat Cave for the night. Only five cavers on patrol outside the cave saw any action in a night-long skirmish with the rain which was to harass the entire force until full withdrawal was made to Columbus.

The morning advance on D + 1 saw Jarvies and Fern caves fall to several lightning attacks by various brigades. That night was spent in intensive field training with General Burden keeping activities rolling.

On morning of D + 2 the unit pulled out after a brief mopping up [operation at Saltpeter Cave. All returned safely. New recruits, Wilbur Bruce and Harold Shrock, Jr., on their first AYH campaign were promoted to full-time AYHers. June Jenkins, Lyssie Brant and Kathy Wildman were issued a Unit Citation being the only girls in the troops." by: Greg Siple February 1966

"The fifth Annual Tour of the Scioto River Valley , May 21-22, 1966, was a huge success with 45 riders leaving the starting point for the two-day, 210 mile bike ride. Half of the riders were not from our council as there were 15 from Lima, 2 from Mentor, one from Youngstown and 3 from Chicago. A surprising 38 completed the distance with 9 of the 10 female starters making it all the way. The finishers ranged in age from 11 to 47 years. There were 2 meal stops going down with the council trailer used as the kitchen facility. Saturday also included about 20 miles of rain, which only seemed to increase everyone's (?) enjoyment. Due to the rain, overnight accommodations were found in the locker room of the Portsmouth municipal stadium."

107 hostlers from Pennsylvania, Michigan and Ohio became part of the Kelly’s Island Rally in conjunction with the Second Annual Great Lakes Rally. Individual hostlers from the Buckeye State came mainly from Columbus, Bowling Green, Toledo, Akron, Lima, Cincinnati and Cleveland. Columbus attained a new record for trip attendance with 60 people attending the two-day rally.

The rally consisted of cycling contests, canoeing contests, cycle touring, day and night hiking, canoeing, swimming, evening program with songfest and watermelon eating contest.

Greg Siple reported that 1200 TOSRV entry blanks were being sent out. They were sent to people in 15 states. The "Lima Lizzie" (converted school bus) was to be used to haul the gear of the participants to Portsmouth. TOSRV had 218 start and about 150 finish this year. Wilbur Scott (Executive Committee and owner of Campus Bike Shop) sold 15 bicycles because of the tour and he congratulated, Mr. Siple, Greg Siple and Charlie Pace for a job well done. Charlie Pace did the food this year.

A rally series included Canal Winchester July 15-16, Kelly's Island Hosteling Rally August 5-6, Carter Caves Rally September 10-11, and Glen Helen Rally September 9-10. In addition to these events, a National hosteling Rally was hosted by Columbus Council on July 1-4. Extended trips included Gulf Cycle Tour March 17-26, Canadian Cycle Tour August 18 to September 3, Timagami Canada Canoe Trip September 1-10, Chesapeake Bay Cycle Tour June 19-30, Grand Canyon Cycle-Hike July 7-23, and Expo '67 a trip to World's Fair September 8-20. These were just the major events, there were also innumerable day and weekend trips. Some of these event involved cycle races. Franklin Bicycle Club and AYH joined together in the early years to sponsor these events.

Columbus helped co-ordinate the first National rally held at the Ohio Exposition Center in Arts & Crafts Building on July 1-4, 1967. Highlights for the weekend include choosing a Bicycle Belle (a beauty pageant), map reading competition, many other cycle events, and hikes in the Delaware County area. There was canoe trips scheduled from the Center to the Mohican River area and to Paint Creek. Sunday’s highlight was a trip to Delaware County for the ABL Ohio Road Championships. Also there was commercial displays by cycle and outdoor manufacturers.

The second annual bike ride and overnight to Circleville to see the Pumpkin Show was again a rousing success. Twenty seven participants spent the night in the American Legion Hall which was a lot warmer than the box car the AYHers stayed in the previous year.

There were many trips to the "Pace Hostel" (not chartered) SW of Logan Ohio. The farmhouse was a cozy farmhouse used for tobogganing, sledding, hiking, eating, singing and warming up after the outdoor activities.

An annual event was the Twelfth Night after Christmas party. It was held at the Warner's house where the main activity was all to bring their old Christmas tree for the bonfire. Other activities included skating on the Scioto River, hiking and eating. In 1968 there were about 50 trees to make this traditional bon fire.

The New Year Smoky Mountain backpacking trip was very popular with the group splitting into two parts to join up only on the last night. Lys Brant and Sam Corbin each took some of the 17 hikers. This four day trip included Cades Cove, Mt. Le Cont and Ice Water Springs on the Appalachian Trail.

This does not sound like a topic you would read in an AYH history. Jackson Scholl wrote an article about shared classical music and the resultant discussion at Charlie Pace's house. Each person brought one record to share and then there was a discussion about the music. Charlie does not like Bartok but there was agreement about Peter Tchai's Romeo and Juliet. It was "agreed that these sessions should be held regularly because they provide an exchange of ideas far removed from those which hostlers usually discuss." The evening ended with Phil Taylor bringing in pizza to share.

"What's this nonsense about sponsoring a two-day, 210 mile bike ride over a route traveled each year? I am told that over $4,800, 7000 volunteer hours, $50,000 free publicity, and 28,800 trip hours may be consumed if the 1968 7^th Annual TOSRV takes place. Isn't this carrying a bike tour a bit too far?

"Some say it is. They talk about it being impossible to find more than 12-15 riders throughout Ohio interested in riding a distance of 210 miles early in the bicycling season. And they talk of how difficult it is to attract these same riders to a repeat ride the following year, and once again the next. You know, they have a point. Three years ago, despite statewide promotion, only 12 riders (9 finished) attended TOSRV.

"But that has changed. TOSRV grew big. So big, that the promoters are predicting a turnout of 800 riders."

The ride had 390 show up on Saturday to ride in rain the whole day. There were head winds and a high temperature in the 50's. Fred DeLong not only rode down on Saturday but also back to catch a plane by 2:00 am Sunday morning. There were fifty two 16 year olds and the ages ranged from 11 to 62.

This was the first TOSRV held on Mother's Day weekend and also the first one with Charlie Pace as Tour Director.

The first director of TOSRV was Charlie Siple. He spent many an evening developing the mailing list of 3000 names, preparing the fact filled information sheet and the application form. The confusion that would ordinarily result from an event like this is now at a minimum because of Charles Siples' meticulous care to attention and detail. National AYH gave Charlie Siple an award for Meritorious Service.

This year the first equipment was purchased by AYH and trips were held at Clifton Gorge and the 900 foot face of Seneca Rocks. Joe Burkey is climbing chair.

On June 5, 1968 an organizational meeting and a sail was held on Hoover Reservoir. The 24 tripper had a wonderful time under the guidance of Randy Replinger and Russ Brant.

There were two Canadian Wilderness trips for canoers. The first went into the region north of Sault Saint Marie from August 23 til September 2. The second was to Algonquin Provincial Park in August for 18 days. The second trip promised "100 miles of wilderness waterways winding through deep forests where deer and moose feed at water's edge; waterfalls of dazzling beauty tumble into deep foam-flecked pools where red-spot trout strike savagely at the fly; alluring little rivers so shallow that you wade your canoe through picked channels arched overhead with thick spruce and pungent fir; deep caves and caverns to explore; and remote little lakes and lagoons, the rendezvous of moose, deer, bear, beaver, ducks, and game birds of all kinds."

The Lima Council AYH held the 2nd annual Midwest Double Century starting at Sidney Ohio. Columbus Council had the most participants complete the figure 8 route through hilly countryside, with about one third flat land.

The Buckridge Ski Club worked with nine Columbus closed boaters, teaching them how to negotiate and play in the rapids. The participants learned many whitewater skills on a trip to the lower Youghioghney River. Three years before (because they did it in open aluminum canoes) some AYHers believed that the Lower New River was not runable except by the most expert. It was quite a trip! An unplanned overnight on the New River was experienced as they were unable to complete the trip before dark. In 1968 six Columbus AYHers have negotiated this difficult river. There were now two C-2's, 8 C-1's and over 25 kayaks. The Council kayak mold had been very busy.

The Amish Bikeway in Geauga had fast become a favorite area for Columbus cyclists. There are many good reasons for this. One is that although the route is basically the same, the experiences never are. Each trip is unique as is each different set of trippers. The gravel and dirt roads add to aesthetic qualities of the scene. The quite, bright-faced Amish with plain clothes, simple, well-kept farms, and horse drawn buggies complete the picture.

Columbus Council gave $200 toward the establishment of a Washington DC youth hostel.

The concept of Home Hostels was originated in Columbus by Scott Warner. The first year over 40 homes in eight states signed up.

The Catholic Adults for Youth agreed to serve supper to the participants staying at either one of two high schools or the YMCA. The participants were limited to 700. Even with bad weather over 400 of the 700 starting completed the tour.

The Board wondered if the amount of time and work put into TOSRV justified the event. More menial labor was to be solicited by the Council for the 1970 event. Red Davis moved that the event continue on Mother's Day next year. TOSRV income was $5,202.10 and expenses were $ 4,147.69.

The Executive Board authorized Charlie Pace to spend as much money as he likes on the Tour as long as he submits a report each month.

The Basic Canoe course was held on the Olentangy River with 45 students and 11 instructors. The 4th annual River Canoe Training Program was held at Camp Nelson Dodd using both the Mohican and Kokosing Rivers. There were 61 participants and 17 staff members. Closed boat white water boating has become a big part of the overall canoeing program. The members of the Kayaking Program have built a mold for a mini slalom kayak and a Chez design C-2. Nine indoor pool sessions were held to train for the kayak season.

Leadership Training was well attended with 43 people gaining a wealth of information from AYH leaders including some professionals. The Kelly's Island Rally was attended by over 200. Many participants were from small towns outside the Council jurisdiction. Bicycling is the big activity with more people than ever getting involved in the early morning and evening family rides. Hiking and backpacking increased in participation under new leaders. Horseback riding gained in popularity.

Membership now stood at 777 compared to 679 last year. There are 15 life compared to 5 in 1968.

The Columbus Council AYH gained in membership (920, with 397 being under 21), participation, and individual and collective knowledge in the realm of the different activities offered. Two hostel clubs were chartered. Advertising of the monthly meetings was conducted on T.V. in conjunction with Center Of Science and Industry. Participation in both the annual U.N. Festival and the Sports, Vacation and Travel Show helped to increase membership. A new committee (Conservation) kept the membership informed on environmental and ecological problems and progress. Leadership School had 21 participants. Two Down River Canoe Schools were held with 120 participants and 116 graduates. A super school for whitewater canoeing was held for 15 individuals on the New River in West Virginia. There were two extended bicycle trips to Europe.

Canoe (27 trips, 467 participants), Bicycle (84,2327), Hike (43,225), Cave (13,129), Rock climb (3,21), Ski (5,42), Horseback (15,132) Total income $23,611.92 and expenses $19,426.72 net $5,416.34

The 10th TOSRV had 1575 bicyclists with 1323 completing the entire 210 miles. It is the biggest bicycle event in the world.

The Kelley's Island Rally was attended by 320 bikers, canoers, kayakers, swimmers and winery explorers. Leadership Training School had 31 graduates. The River canoe School had 66 students and the Basic Canoe Course had 50 students. The weekly Rock Climbing School had 25 sessions with an average of 9 attenders.

For the first time there was a budget established by the Executive Committee. This action permitted the committees to have more autonomy over their operations and plans. It permitted the Executive Committee to become more involved with policy decisions and committee reports.

Columbus Council AYH took more action than ever before to promote the preservation and appreciation of wilderness. Because of action initiated and recommended by Columbus Council, it appears that much of the Olentangy River between Delaware and Columbus would be designated as a "scenic river" by the Department of Natural Resources. Several members testified in favor of Senate Bill 247, which would have established a statewide trail system of hiking, bicycling, canoeing, horseback riding and cross country skiing.

After 15 years of existence, Burr Oak Hostel, a rustic 20-bed hostel built entirely by dedicated Columbus Council members, was officially abandoned. Plagued by vandalism, disinterest and an inadequate water supply, the building was lost by default to the Sunday Creek Coal company from whom the land had been leased.

Columbus Council AYH members continued to exhibit the enthusiasm and support which results in having one of the most varied and active programs in the country.

Columbus Council gave $200 toward the establishment of a Washington DC youth hostel.

The Home Hostel program approved by the AYH National Board continued to be coordinated by Columbus Council. Ten Home Hostels between Columbus and Minneapolis have been officially chartered by National.

Ashley Molk led a bike ride from Zanesville to McConnelsville along the Muskingum River on July 4th. The group left the river to experience 15 miles of hills in going to the town of Ruraldale. After eating lunch at the Busy Bee Cafe in McConnelsville the group return to Ohio University Zanesville Campus after a beautiful 65 mile ride.

Carl E. Treviler led 12 people (including Gerald Wadkowski and his son Mike) on a canoe trip from Howard to Mohawk Dam. They planned on making it to Mohawk day in one day so the take out cars were parked here. They only made it to the mouth of the Mohican before having to hitch a ride to the cars. The trip had its usual excitement with paddles breaking in Factory Rapids and a kayak without spray skirt swamping.

"The fateful day was August 6, 1972. It was fine day for a bike trip, cool for August. Who could suspect what might befall an innocent group led by Bill Adamescu, on only 28 miles of bike way? Plenty befell and some of it was even good.

"First, the bad part, Frank Semetko's leg got hit by a steel tube in a gas station. Second, Dave Semetko's blow out. Third, Sharon Workman's camera falling off her bike and smashing to smithereens. Fourth, the celebrated country store in Lucas was closed. Fifth, Steve Turney's getting a bloody finger in his derailleur. Sixth, Ashley Molk's blowout without a replacement tire. Seventh, the screw that fell off Ray Meyer's rear rack.

"For only 28 miles, it was a hilly ride, and with all the interruptions, it took many hours more than planned. The good parts were fine weather, good food stops, Malabar Farm's iron fountain and beautiful country."

Tip Carpenter, Boating Chair, had the foresight to divide the running of the canoe program into eight committees. They were Reports & Records (Kathy Feltz), Scheduling (Charlie Huhn), Equipment (Jeff Boerger), Basic School (John Molnar), River School (Ralph Rosenfield & Steve Schmitt), Leader Training & Safety (Tip Carpenter), Scouting NW Trips (Carl Trewiler) and Boat Building (Allen Ichida).

Two boaters tried Rocky Fork Creek off Clark State Road in Gahanna and found a real powerhouse of a creek. Water was running higher than usual and they found standing waves as soon as they started. Taking a little water here and then proceeding to the first three foot ledge called "Over and Under". The boat was aimed straight and true for the best location on the ledge, and over it went, popping the center seat into the air and splitting part of the bottom seam. Not having time to bail, it hit another three foot ledge. By this time there was a miniature Old Faithful in the bottom of the boat. Upon pulling to shore they only had a 400 yard carry back to the car with the crippled boat.

CONFLUENCE

Columbus Council purchased 2 1/2 acres of land for its first hostel location, nestled in the Laurel Mountain area of Pennsylvania. This concluded three years of searching for land area by the Ski and Canoe Committee.

The first Woodstock bicycle trip took place on September 1, 1973 and was designed and led by Rob Rudinger.

CAVING by Joe Burkey

"The past year has seen caving develop as a major activity in our council programs. A total of 19 successful trips indicates the interest in caving. More importantly, the large number of individuals (37 on one trip) and many different caves explored made each trip different than the others.

"Trips have varied in degree of difficulty from very simple beginners trips with nearly all walkways size passages to strenuous ten hour trips with crawlways and even smaller inchways wading through pools, climbing, and sliding.

We have seen nearly the full range of cave features and life from stalactites to cave pearls and isopods to blind cave fish."

A map of the route to the Kountry Kitchen (now known as the Dutch Kitchen) was shown in the July Buckeye Hosteler. The route started at Griggs Dam on the east side of the Scioto River and used Dublin Road to Rings Road and returned on Fishinger Road. A caution was noted that Dublin Road was "quite hazardous".

A series on bicycling was shown for 5 weeks on the local TV station. Prepared by Mike Gabor of Channel 4, with the help of AYH, the program was essentially an effective cycling program showing from how to fit a bike to repair and proper riding technic. Emergency maneuvers, avoiding potholes, gravel, panic stops and instant turns were also covered. The only problem was it was a ten minute segment on the 6:30 AM program.

Hostel Clubs were active in Cambridge and Athens. Their programs were printed in the Buckeye Hosteler.

The Columbus AYH was very active in travel this year. Members not only participated in Hemistour, the Burden & Siple bicycle trip from Alaska to Argentina, but were in a canoe trip to James Bay (200 miles on Missinaibi River to Moosonee) and other trips to Cape Cod Massachusetts, Wa Wa Canada, Greenbrier County West Virginia, Slippery Rock Pennsylvania, Kelly's Island Ohio and Mexico.

The National Board voted to increase life membership from $50.00 to $110.00 starting in October 1975. This prompted many Columbus Council members to become life members. In fact over 300 signed up at this time.

After three years as Cycling chair Ashley Molk gave the job to Dick Seebode. Ashley had set up a committee to operate the cycling program. These were Sharon Workman (Scheduling), John Reed (Equipment), Deloris Bills (First Aid), Lorraine Semple (Trip Reports), Keith Semple (Maintenance), Rod Rudinger (Extended Trips), Debbie Krause (Safety), and Frank Semetko (Executive Committee Programs).

Dick started with an article in the Buckeye Hosteler urging all to use the bicycles they had bought in the last five years for transportation, fellowship and fitness. He felt that AYH could help in the "Development of Skills" such as safety, leadership, training, maintenance, cycle camping, qualification rides, time trails; "Support for Individuals" such as planning help, advice on day trips, extended trips, cycle camping, maps (both local and out-of-state), leaders, car pools; and "Schedule" including a good mix of A, B, & C class rides, different starting places, extended trips, hostel trips, camping trips, rides to festivals and points of interest, safety instruction, and maintenance sessions.

Kevin Fitzsimons extolled the ultimate vacation, travel in Europe. He states that about five years ago travel to Europe became feasible for people like AYHers, with lower airline fares, a variety of hostels in stay in and with a willingness to learn language and local customs. With these skills a person could therefore enjoy meeting people of different cultures and languages.

The use of bicycle helmets is first mentioned in the March 1975 Buckeye Hosteler. Until this time helmets were not made and the few bicyclist who wanted some head protection had been wearing hockey helmets. Safety flags and fanny bumpers were also now recommended on all AYH bicycle rides and people were encouraged always to use these safety devices when bicycling.

After several years of planning, the construction of a building in Confluence Pennsylvania was approved at the March Executive Board meeting. This building came to be known as the "Yough Stop" and was used mainly by the boaters going to the rivers in the area. The building was completed in June.

The first MOC was held starting at Shelby Field (Otterbein College) in Delaware Ohio. It was a notable first ride in that the sponsors, the Delaware Bike Club, never expected to have over 500 riders show up from Ohio and six surrounding states, with many from Columbus Council AYH. The youngest was 4 and the oldest was 68. The weather was chiller-than-expected and only 156 completed the entire 100 miles.

About 150 bicyclists voiced their opinions on the need for a bikeway in the Spring Sandusky Interchange. It was an open meeting conducted at Columbus City Council Chambers and chaired by Art Vorys. (While it is still not built, it is in the plans for the new freeway interchange and should be built between 1998 and 2002.)

Two home hostels were chartered. One at Chillicothe and the other in Zanesville. This concept has gained in popularity through the years. It is particularly useful idea in areas where a full service hostel can not be supported with the limited number of travelers.

Ron Eisele devised a system of classifying cavers just like the bicyclists have. A porta-cave was built to give an individual a chance to determine his/her classification. This is made of 4 sticks that have adjustable positions in the vertical direction. A person attempts to squeeze through narrower and narrower square holes until their match is met. This is declared their class. Class A is 6 1/2 inch or less, Class B is 6 1/2 to 7 1/2 inch, Class C is 7 1/2 to 8 1/2 inch, and Class D is 8 1/2 inch and above. Upon certification Class B cavers were presented with the Order of Sore Sternum and Class A cavers with the Medal of the Cracked Coccyx.

The first CFC was a roaring success with about 80 cyclist gathered in 40 degree weather at J. C. Penney Distribution Center off Brice Road to ride to Zanesville. The purpose of the ride was to give the better cyclists of the country a demanding tour at the peak of their cycling season. Many major climbs were slated including Revenge, Savage, and the three bears (Corning area). There were eight food stops on the two days with hot soup served at lunch both days. This was a tremendous success. Perry County helped out by digging out their ditches and placing the gravel on the roads. Muskingum County helped too by opening two roads after placing new pavement just two days before the tour. St. Thomas School in Zanesville served a chicken diner and all slept well on the gym floor.

Twelve of the hills were numbered for the riders convenience. Some of the Michigan (Detroit) riders had low of 42 x 18 freewheel and found themselves walking. They thought Ohio was flat! Sundays' return was easier on the hills but was more demanding with a stiff head wind for 2/3 of the way back. The Sunday route was north through the area south of Mt. Vernon and through Johnstown.

Columbus Council sponsored innumerable trips of all descriptions this year. Ron Eisele went backpacking in the Red River Gorge area of Kentucky. The New River was visited by boaters on October 9th and 10th with 40,000 cubic feet of water per second, by Charlie Huhn, Julie Schmitt, Susie Harrington, Donna Berglund and Kathy Feltz. The Olentangy River was run on October 17 in southern Delaware County. Caving had at least one major trip each month led by John Krietzburg. Cornwell Cave and an extended (more than 12 hour) visit to Sinnit Cave (both in West Virginia) were explored.

New Year's Day was clear and 12 well-bundled riders (nuts) gathered at the Worthington D. Q. for the annual bicycle ride of the year, or as Ed Honton said, 'If it wasn't Jan. 1, we wouldn't be here'. The temperature was 10 degrees, so they elected to go one mile per degree, all the way to Flint and back. The ride had been shut out in the past by heavy snow, but this was the coldest, and all learned a little more about winter clothing.

Memorial Day Weekend found a new trip being taken to Franklin West Virginia. This was the second year for a group of 25 tripper's to take this excursion to cave, rock climb, bicycle, hike, swim and social. Four caves were explored (Nut, Trout, Hamilton and Mystery) on the first day with swimming in the evening. Frisbee throwing and testing their limits with the porta cave finished day one. The nearly vertical cave called Sunnit-Thorn was explored on Sunday. On Monday 4 bicyclists climbed to the summit of Seneca Rocks where they met the rest of the group to do some climbing. The day and the trip ended with a swim.

On September 23, 1977 the Ohio Department of Natural Resources announced the agreement between Columbus Council AYH and ODNR for a hostel at Malabar Farm State Park near Mansfield. This was the first state park with a hostel. The hostel is a two-story farmhouse that will accommodate about 20 people and will have a kitchen, dining room and bathrooms.

An unprecedented list of willing and very capable people running for 8 openings on the Executive Board made it hard for members to make a choice of who would best serve the Council. The list included Sharon Workman, Lynn Weller, Susan Van Ausdal, Elisa Smith, Tony Skrabak, Frank Semetko, Ralph Rosenfield, Guy Nesham, Bill Musser, Ed McVey, Kathy Kelso, Roger Herbst, George Grant, Bill Feltz Jr., Ted Chapman, Tip Carpenter, Richard Bain, Tom Anderson, Don Davids and Martha Chase. Long time hostelers will recognize that many of these people were/are active for many years.

On October 1, 1977 at starting time, a terrific storm was producing lighting, rain and high winds so the tour was delayed 30 minutes. At 8:00 with only rain and wind to contend with, the 100 bicyclists started for Zanesville into a terrific head wind and downpour that lasted until 8:30. Even under these severe conditions 56% of the riders made the entire 210 miles.

The new year brought a change to the bicycle program. To help out the cycling chair there were two clusters formed. These served the north and southeast. Now the cycling chair only had to find leaders for downtown, south, and southwest areas.

A 6" x 8" bike sign showing the direction from Worthington or Westerville to Malabar Farm Hostel were installed by Columbus Council. The first edition of the map set "36 Bike Routes in Mid-Ohio" was published. These were in green paper so they could not be copied.

There were hostels in Columbus, Chillicothe, Marietta, Dresden, New Plymouth, Malabar Farm, and Zanesfield. Here was an opportunity for a circle bicycle trip through Hocking Hills, along the Muskingum River and the Amish Country of Holmes County.

Malabar Farm was staffed with a volunteer house parent during its first season. A different individual or couple agreed to be at the hostel each weekend. They often lead a group activity, like bicycling, from the hostel.

Sharon Workman led a unique bicycle trip by taking a train to Richmond Indiana and then having tail wind back to Marmon Valley Farm, Zanesfield for an overnight.

A trip lead by Ron Eisele to the Adirondacks to canoe for two weeks was very successful. Instead of using the big lakes in the area, the smaller ones were used with many portages to get into the back country. Ron said, " It is like being 2-3 miles in from the nearest entrance of a large cave system. When night falls and the various critters start their yelling and screeching and there is not a single light to be seen, and the number of beer cans strewn about approaches zero, and we can see fish 8 feet down in the water, we begin to realize that we've really gotten away from it all and ain't it great."

Notice that the title says cave, singular. It was determined that if Cow & Counterfeiter caves really connected the best way to determine this was by mapping both caves. After several trips by a total of 29 people over two years both caves where mapped. Columbus Council AYH trippers had discovered that these were really one cave system. A map had been produced and was on display for several years at the Malabar Farm Hostel. The original can now be seen at the COP office.

The Council established a signed bike route on paved roads across Ohio from near Richmond Indiana to Youngstown Ohio. This undertaking was conceived and accomplished in less than a year with the help of many people. Over 430 signs where placed so that the route could be traveled in either direction. The route had a trip-tik type map. By 1990 over 2500 maps had been sold.

It was decided that the signed Cardinal Trail would be a good place to have an extended bicycle trip. Starting in Richmond Indiana and staying overnight in Piqua, Byhalia, Fredericktown, Canal Fulton, and New Middletown. Eighty-eight people attended the first AOBT.

In addition to the Cardinal Trail, Ed Honton laid out and mapped many other cross state bike routes including: Route B from Cincinnati to Marietta, Route C from Cincinnati to Cleveland, Route E from Pippa Passes Ky to Milford Michigan, Route F from Richmond Indiana to Belaire, Route K from McGill to Milford, and J from Marietta to Conneaut. Each of these routes were carefully researched to provide a pleasant bicycling experience for the person who liked to vacation by bicycle.

Columbus Council continued to maintain the signs on several loop routes in Ohio including: Covered Bridge, Old Mill, Mansfield, Top Of Ohio, Scenic River, and the three Dublin Boy Scout Routes.

A map showing a system of roads to use in commuting about Columbus was developed. This map was well received by the bicycle community and has been reprinted several times with a total printing of 12,500 maps.

Dick Seiple started sailing lessons for AYH in conjunction with the Leatherlips Yacht Club on the Scioto River. The members of the yacht club had first chance to participant, but there was enough room to take all the AYH people who wanted to learn.

Two Columbus Council AYH bicyclists participated in this every 4 year event. It is a ride in which the rider must complete the 750 miles in less than 90 hours. Dick Seebode was the first American to complete it this year and Mark Langenfield also completed it. Prior to 1979 only two Americans had completed the event which is a predecessor to the modern day Olympics having started before the turn of the century.

This is the first summer of the Monday night volleyball program at Whetstone Park. It became a popular social and athletic event for the summer.

A Columbus Council AYH t-shirt was designed by Joe Honton. Many shirts were sold over several years. The problem was that the supplier mistook the order and made 500 size large when we wanted only 50 size large. After several years we gave away the remaining shirts. The logo was the outline of the U.S. with the AYH triangle focusing in on Columbus Ohio and saying "We're still discovering America!"

The Council agreed to operate bike rentals at two metro parks, Blacklick Woods and Sharon Woods. Sixty bikes were available to use within the parks. People were hired to operate these rentals. The park provided a building and electric. We provided phone service, advertising and the operation. We kept 95% of the net income. The operation was a success this first year in that it nearly paid for the cost of the bikes.

Columbus hosted the meeting at the Malabar Farm Hostel on September 13 & 14. Delegates from the Councils in Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Ohio, Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana attended this semi-annual meeting. The meeting provides a forum for delegates to plan for the future of AYH and to learn what others are doing.

After many days of heavy rain several people from the boating community canoed and kayaked the Licking River from Newark to Stadden's Bridge. One of the highlights on this section of the trip was the profusion of birds along the waterway. They continued on to Toboso through the beautiful Black Hand Gorge.

This year there were 40 people at breakfast. The temperature got to 21 after a morning low of 10. The armada of 2 trailers with 17 canoes plus many cars with canoes on top left for the Clear Creek junction of Hocking River after breakfast at Charlie Pace's house. They had to break the ice but still enjoyed a day in the sun and eating outside at scenic Rock Bridge. As usually they celebrated Red Davis' birthday.

Each year Columbus Council has more boating schools with five this year plus many roll sessions for kayakers. There is Basic Canoe School to develop skills in basic canoe handling and safety with emphasis on learning the different paddle strokes on still water. River Canoe School teaches paddling skills on moving water, including river canoeing techniques and river reading, canoe safety, and the basics of leading a canoe trip. Red Cross Whitewater Clinic is similar to AYH River Canoe School with more emphasis on first aid and safety. Closed Boat School (given twice, spring and summer) is for potential kayakers and other closed boaters at both novice and intermediate levels.

An extensive report by John Krietzburg relates the surveying of Sand Cave to find that it is connected to Tygart's Cave. This is just one of the many cave exploring trips that Columbus Council has undertaken to the benefit of all cavers.

The old system of keeping a membership rooster on index cards with an addressograph plate was changed to a computer system in early 1981. And instead of taking the cover of each Buckeye Hosteler and stamping the addressograph plate on it; simply to make labels that could be put on by many people was a revolution.

The best cross country skiing is available in Lake Placid New York. Naturally the Columbus bunch planned a trip to here to enjoy two days of beautiful trail skiing with just the right amount of snow.

After many years of having the monthly membership meeting at Center Of Science & Industry the Council moved to the First Unitarian Church at 93 West Weisheimer Road.

The Council hired Ohio State University photography department to make a bicycling film showing the fun of every type of bicycling. The cost of production was about $12,000 and with a sale price of $200 the cost of production was nearly recouped in just a few years. The editorial board from AYH included Diane Cattran, Dick Seebode and Ed Honton. Their efforts made sure that the film showed only the correct and safe way to bicycle.

Under the leadership of A.M. Lendacki a major campaign was launched to find and license home hostels along all the new cross state bike route. Under her guidance the Council chartered about a dozen new home hostels.

The bicyclists in the Council came out in great numbers to support placing a five foot bicycle lane on each side of Schrock Road from Busch Boulevard near Worthington to State Street in Westerville. This facility is to be built when Schrock Road is widened to four lanes. The final design will even have an interchange type system at the entrance to Sharon Woods Metro Park so that those bicyclist on the south side of Schrock Road can cross under without motor vehicle traffic.

The series of rides in preparation for the Paris-Brest-Paris event are know as randonneurs (french term referring to a long distance specialist). Dick Seebode organized rides for 200 kilometers in 14 hours, 300 Km in 24 hours, 400 Km in 27 hours, 600 Km in 40 hours and 1000 Km in 72 hours. These rides must be completed in order and are required to be a participant in P-B-P.

The Council purchased a used 15 passenger Dodge Maxi-Van for use on trips. This was to allow members who did not own motor vehicles to lead trips and as a supplemental vehicle for boating trips, sag wagon on bike trips and like uses.

The newest hostel in the Columbus Councils chain was opened at Caesar Creek in December. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources leased this old house to the Council. It has a common room, small dining area, large kitchen and two dormitory rooms on the second floor. A new signed bike route was planned from OSU campus to the hostel, an 85 mile ride.

The first Top Of Ohio Hundred started with a choice of bicycling 25, 62 or 100 miles from Dublin to Bellefontaine.

A new Constitution of Columbus Council American Youth Hostels, Inc. was approved by the membership on June 3, 1982. The constitution was revised to be more in line with current practices.

Another new idea for bicyclists was a bike ride of the month. The idea was to have a short ride of 10 or less miles and a long route of about 25 miles for the 8 good riding months of the year. A patch could be purchased for those who completed 6 of the 8 rides. Each month there was one lead ride, however, a map was in the Buckeye Hosteler and the route was painted with arrows on the road so a person could ride it on their own.

The first Caesar Creek Solstice Ride was organized by Ron Eisele to feature the Caesar Creek Hostel. The start was across the reservoir from the hostel and was planned so that no matter whether you rode the 25, 50 or 100 mile route you would be able to enjoy lunch at the hostel.

The Delaware Bicycle Club disbanded this year so Columbus Council took over the nine year old Mid Ohio Century and continued it in its grand tradition.

A renewal in the interest of rock climbing brought forth a new leader in Rick Hoechstetter. New equipment was purchased with the idea of rock climbing at Clifton Gorge Ohio, and Seneca Rocks West Virginia.

A great deal of effort, volunteer labor and money went into the building at 95 East Twelfth Avenue. The new hostel was used as a dental fraternity house until it was given to the Ohio State University Trustees. The house has the looks of a Frank Lloyd Wright design. The interior of the building was fixed up, painted and some renovations took place. The major need was a partitioned off area for the house parent. The house had five rental rooms, a house parents apartment, and two dormitory rooms for 8 men and 8 women.

To provide a challenge for the long distance bicycle rider a ride called Bicycle Marathon Of Columbus was started. The event started in New California (northwest of Dublin) and the rider went to Caesar Creek Hostel and return plus additional loops giving 200 miles.

Budget Tours were started costing 50 cents. These rides provided a map, arrows on the road, and limited sag service. The first ride was the Covered Bridge Century in the fall of 1984. In 1985 Ride The Darby was added.

A new starting place was found for the popular ride to the Dutch Kitchen. Because of increase traffic out of Dublin the ride start was moved. Sherex allowed the bicyclists to park in their lot on Saturday to go riding in Madison County.

Just when you think there is no idea left for a bicycle ride, the AYHers find one. The first Gourmet Ride was an event starting at Madison Lake State Park. A person could bicycle 10, 25 or 62 miles before returning to the park to play volleyball or swim. But this was not the real reason for the ride. The organizers arranged with the Gourmet Market of Grandview to supply some very good food. The first event had over 125 participants. The AYHers know when to show up!

The Council has about six caving trips for beginners. Experienced leaders take small groups on one day trips to user-friendly caves in Kentucky. Most cave trips are weekend trips to West Virginia or central Kentucky where there is a choice of the type of trip (horizontal or vertical, wet or dry). During the past year the trips had been to one cave with passages that had no human in them before and to three caves that had no known human in them before. Some trips are to help map a cave, or work a dig in hopes of opening up more cave, some are just to tour the cave.

A special hike at Greenlawn Cemetery was held on Halloween. Because of the time and place 94 people signed up! What a surprise for the leader.

This year AYH started the Interpretive America Award. It was given to the Malabar Farm houseparent, Joe Fodor. Joe had a strong and well conceived program to interpret the area at Malabar Farm Hostel.

E. J. Honton, the current secretary of National AYH Board and past president visited the Council Board meeting and pointed out many facts to the Board. Columbus Council, on its 50th anniversary is the oldest Council that is still active. The Council started out with an emphasis on square dancing but had shifted to canoeing as a main attraction by the fifties. Scott Warner started home hostels and the Fanny Bumper; he and Charlie Pace led reorganization of the National AYH in the early seventies. Patch rides started in Columbus. Bikecentenial grew from our activities. Seebode organized a bike program which has reached our present form. The National AYH Strategic Plan was developed with major assistance by people from Columbus.

The Council purchased three computer systems this year: one for Buckeye Hosteler and TOSRV, one for membership and one for general use. New folding and stapling equipment was purchased to aid in the production of the Buckeye Hosteler. The Council donated $5000 to the new Washington D.C. International Hostel. The Council has an outstanding "Letter of Credit" to the New York Hostel project. We had also loaned Potomac Area Council funds to help get the Baltimore Hostel started.

The Council agreed to loan $14,000 to the Wisconsin Council to make improvements their Red Barn Hostel near Milwaukee. It has been the policy of Columbus Council to loan funds to worthy hostel projects in the United States when these projects often could find no other funding.

The hiking program showed real promise in 1988 with 310 hikers on 20 different trips. The varied program provided swimming after one hike and often went places to experience Ohio history and nature. Several trips were made around Columbus to see the Ohio Theater, the Zoo, jazz musicians and Christmas Lights.

The Board voted to sponsor a new event in cooperation with the Ohio Department of Development. The ride was to have a full time director and commercial sponsors. The emphasis was to be on family vacation. The daily ride was to be about 50 miles highlighting tourist attractions like historical sites, factories, museums, and outdoor plays. The first year had over 1200 participants. The first GOBA toured west central Ohio visiting Yellow Springs, Lebanon, Wilmington, Springfield, Bellefontaine, Wapakoneta, and Piqua.

This event is expected to make some profit for the Council. The Board agreed from the beginning that excess of income over expenses would be used to benefit the bicycling community within Ohio. The first year the excess funds were used to repair a portion of the T. J. Evans Bike Path between Granville and Alexandria.

During a visit to Columbus by the National Executive Director, Dick Martyr, he pointed out how AYH can make the world a better place to live. In Columbus, we have one of the strongest activity programs in the country. Activities are the key to the future of hosteling and are part of the hosteling spirit. From activities, the use of hostels will grow and become the melting pot that enables the youth of today to meet their counterpart from all over the world. With this awareness of how other people live will come an awareness of the need for all people to work together for the betterment of the world environment. Who knows how many future leaders of the world may emerge from the hosteling experience of today.

In May the Board hired the first paid staff for operation of the Council. With nearly 3000 members and an ever increasing work load for volunteers it was agreed that we needed an office to provide better service for our members. Ann Gerckens became the secretary with the office at 41 Croswell Road. The office shared space with the Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure. One of the fears of the Board was that we would have less volunteer support under this new arrangement. In actuality there were even more volunteers.

The Grandview police department started a police bicycle patrol. Since they planned on riding without bicycle helmets, Columbus Council agreed to donate new helmets to them. It was felt this was very important as police are looked at as role models by many young people.

On October 20, 1989 a party was held at the Heart Of Ohio AYH-Hostel to celebrate the 50 years that Columbus Council had been in existence.

During this year there were eight trips for beginners (schools), several evening vertical climbing seminars and caves in West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, Tennessee and Alabama were probed.

The boating program had as many schools as in the past and had a very good year because of the amount of rain that fell. There were many new leaders. The youth was put back into the boating program with two trips specifically for youths.

The kitchen in the basement of the Columbus hostel had never been modernized. The Board authorized the expenditure of $17,000 to do a first class. The Hostel Operations Chair, Mike Fox, did a super job of accomplishing this major renovation.

With the new craze of mountain bikes or bikes with wide tires, wide handle bars and sitting in an upright position, the Council started a monthly ride specifically for these bikes. There are few places in Ohio to ride this bike off road. Each winter month a 25-mile ride was planned within 50 miles of Columbus, using as many gravel and hilly roads as possible.

The second Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure had over 2,300 participants touring the north coast area of the state. The ride visited Oberlin, Bellevue, Port Clinton, Fostoria, Bucyrus, Mansfield, and Ashland.

The Board agreed to loan $70,000 to the Syracuse New York Council towards a new $300,000 hostel. These loans have become almost a tradition with Columbus Council. It is hoped that we never have a bad loan. To date we have had trouble with only two loans. A $1000 loan in the early '70s to Community Camp for a hostel in New Plymouth was never paid back. Before that a $500 loan to the Bridgeport CT Hostel was defaulted and eventually the court awarded us about half the loan back.

The program continues to do well. It grows each year and this year was no exception. Beginning backpack school had 18 students that spent 6 weeks in the classroom, a field trip and a weekend of backpacking. An intermediate backpack school had nine students spend considerable time advancing their skills both in the classroom and in actual backpacking. Nine trips were held this year.

Council cavers engaged in public service projects this year. A weekend camping and caving trip with youngsters from Godman Guild was initiated. Fifteen Council volunteer cavers co-operated with the National Park Service on a weekend cave restoration project at Mammoth Cave National Park. Continuing seminars teach single rope vertical techniques resulting in a successful trip to a cave with a 120 foot entrance drop. There were nine trips to caves that are within 6 hours of Columbus. One day trips to Carter Cave continue to be the most popular trip for cavers and beginners alike.

The Council helped sponsor a public hearing at Columbus City Council chambers to establish a vision of cycling Central Ohio. The event was sponsored officially by The Central Ohio Bicycle Advocacy Coalition. This new group wanted to have public officials from the state, county and cities attend an open meeting to hear what was needed by cyclist both for recreation and commuting in the Central Ohio area. With a couple of hundred in the audience and over 20 public official present to hear the 12 main speakers, it was a worthwhile event.

Even though Columbus has had little snow for the last few years the winter activities continue to grow. The new chair, Sandy Jones has come up with many ways to keep our members enjoying the outdoors and indoors. She started more frequent ice skating events, sponsored ice hockey, down hill skiing, and organized the new sport of roller blading.

The third annual Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure had over 2400 riders. The ride started in Washington C. H. and toured the south central part of Ohio. Towns visited included Circleville, Logan, Chillicothe, Waverly, West Union, and Hillsboro.

The Council decided to stop operation of the two bike rental. The rentals at Sharon Woods Metro Park and Blacklick Woods Metro Park were breaking even or losing money in the last few years. In addition, a new AYH policy, that applies to all bicycle rides, was instituted. This policy requires the wearing of an approved bicycle helmet. This would be difficult at a rental.

This new sport has really taken off in Columbus under the leadership of Sandy Jones. Nearly every month there is an article telling about where they will be having week night sessions and weekend roller blade trips. Generally they use bike trails, but have been known to roller blade in downtown Columbus on Sunday.

National AYH produced a new "Risk Management Manual" that the Columbus Council believed would be restrictive to our activity program. According the Board took action to respond with extensive remarks. A committee was formed under Tom Barlow, Tour Director of GOBA, with the desire of a major revision of the Risk Manuel. When present to the National Board of Directors, the suggestions made by Columbus were adopted 100%.

A marketing plan was developed in 1992 to determine how to increase use of the two Columbus operated hostels. This detailed document was prepared for the Board by E. J. Honton, member of the National AYH Board. First it was shown that the city of Columbus needs to be marketed for what is available there to get hostlers to come. Since in 1992 Ameriflora was a major event in Columbus the Board should promote coming to see it and staying at the Columbus hostel. Use of the hostel could also be increased through extensive marketing with Columbus AYH bicycling events drawing people to the area.

The Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure had 2,650 registered participants. The week long tour this year stayed overnight at Delaware, Galion, Mt. Vernon, Coshocton (2 nights with a loop through Sugar Creek on the second day), Zanesville, and Granville.

The Council elected to donate $4,325 to the Ohio State University police department to start a police on bikes patrol on campus.

Several year ago Columbus AYH provided $8,000 to help in the production of a video to show the correct way to effectively bicycle in traffic. For this sum 500 copies of the video were provided to be sold to libraries in the United States. The board approved $3,530 to get the mailing list and mail promotion material to the libraries. These 500 copies were sold out very quickly and the Council recovered its total investment.

A loan of $10,000 was approved for a hostel in Santa Cruz California. This continued the long commitment that the Council has towards hostels.

The Minneapolis Minnesota Council also requested a loan of $50,000, however, before the loan was approves the building they were interested in was sold to another party.

The Council participants in this annual event by paddling down the Scioto River and using canoes as the viewing platform for the annual 4^th of July fireworks. This has become such a big event that people are turned away for lack of space in the boats.

A section of the Buckeye Trail is now maintained by the Backpacking program. Under the leadership of Ann Gerckens the trail in Scioto State Forest is cleared of brush and trail blazes are installed.

GOBA continues to be a very successful endeavor of the club with Van Wert, Defiance, Wauseon, Bowling Green, Bluffton, Wapakoneta see about 2900 riders this year.

A survey was completed to gage the interest in having an activity center in conjunction with a hostel in Columbus. The survey showed there was considerable interest. The present Heart of Ohio Hostel on 12^th Avenue was not considered a good place to have activities as it is small and hard to reach with little parking available. A great deal of effort was expended in looking for a site that would match the criteria of a building that could serve as an office, activity center and hostel. After several months work, the idea was abandoned.

The Ham Radio club that has helped with TOSRV for many years needed a new repeater and the Council agreed to donation of up to $13,000 to cover the cost. A repeater is very necessary to the successful communications on TOSRV. The Columbus Police Department was awarded $4,000 toward the purchase of 6 bikes for Police On Bike program.

New furniture was procured for the Malabar Farm Hostel. The faithful house manager Florence Overholt was commended for her outstanding commitment to the hostel. Heart of Ohio Hostel manager Clint DeWorth hosted a rededication of the hostel. He oversaw many improvements to the hostel under the guidance of Mike Fox, the facilities manager for the Council.

In 1994 the bicycle patch ride program had a terrific turn out of riders. Woodstock 431, SPOT 310, Mid Ohio Century 1045, Top Of Ohio Hundred 584, HOOT 285, Ridge Runner Ramble 109, Ride The Darby 104, Covered Bridge Century 102, Hocking Hills 100 55, Columbus Fall Challenge 412, and Fall HOOT 66. This continues to be a successful part of the outdoor activity program.

Over 2694 participants from 33 states and 5 countries enjoyed this tour of southwestern Ohio. Featured this year were visits to many state parks, Ohio Caverns, Piatt Castles, outdoor drama Bluejacket, Air Force Museum and historical sites such as Ft. Recovery. Overnights included Celina, Piqua, Urbana, Xenia, Miamisburg, and Greenville.

A total of 6018 signed up for Tour of the Scioto River Valley this year. As seems to often be the case, it rained hard on Saturday all day. So this 33^rd running of the event is listed as the wettest of them all.

The Council continues to be an active participant in the National meetings. A representative from Columbus has attended the four board meetings each year. In addition one of our board members, Gail Hesse, is the Regional Vice President and is on the National Board. The Council has been active in attending many meeting of the Strategic Planning Process. This two year effort has been diligently worked on by the Columbus Council. Work continued on the National Risk Management Manuel under the direction of Tom Barlow.

Four Council members were sent to a Wilderness Risk Management Conference in Conway, Washington. The high cost of insurance liability insurance is a problem and it is hoped that by the work of the Risk Management Committee that the cost can be lowered. Those who attended the Wilderness Risk Management Conference are to teach up to eight people per activity first and basic aid.

Also, the Council contracted with SOLO Wilderness Emergency Medicine to teach a 16-hour back country first aid course.

Under the leadership of Sandy Jones ice skating participation has really increased this year. She scheduled a skate every other Sunday through March at the new Chiller facility near Dublin.

At the January 1995 Board meeting there was extensive discussion about whether to disaffiliate from HI-AYH or to set up two organizations. One being the hostel arm and the other the activity group. While no decision was made at this meeting it was the beginning of serious discussion about the future of Columbus Council AYH.

At the February Board meeting reasons for disaffiliating were discussed including the high cost of insurance, the requirement of a full audit rather than a financial review (tremendous cost difference) and the difference in our missions. While Columbus has always supported hostels and wish to continue to do so, the main focus of the organization has been activities.

In early April the Board meet with Dick Martyr, Executive Director of HI-AYH and Blaine Frantz, National HI-AYH liaison to the Eastern Councils.

The discussion covered these main topics: maintaining & operating hostels, programming in hostels, do the missions of Columbus Council & National overlap, what does Columbus Council give to National, what about hostel closings in the U. S., can a split be amicable if one occurs. Financial perspectives on hostels. An important point made during the discussion was that National expected disaffiliation would occur, but council presence would remain in Columbus. Columbus Council is naive if it is believed that split will occur without a struggle. All relationship break-ups have an element of strife and discomfort.

In April 1995 an open membership meeting was held to get the views of all the members. Position papers were prepared titled "Why Affiliate" and Why Disaffiliate" were prepared with the goal of a frank, open, and honest meeting. Unfortunately only 63 members participated in the meeting. It was decided to delay the question until latter when there would be an open forum on the question and followed by a general membership meeting. The forum was held on November 1, 1995 at Chemical Abstracts and the general membership voting was held on November 9 at the Columbus Council office building.

If disaffiliation is approved it is the Boards intention to continue operating as when Columbus Council AYH with only a name change, which was approved by the Board in September 1995 (Columbus Outdoor Pursuits). As an example hostels would still be maintained and memberships continued in the new organization.

The general membership vote was 341 in favor of disaffiliation and 46 against. Discussions continued with National AYH trying to work out our disagreements.

On October 6, 1995 Columbus Council filed a lawsuit against HI-AYH in United States District Court seeking the right to disaffiliate and to retain all assets.

There was much speculation about why TOSRV was having a decreasing number of participants recently. In 1995 there were about 5,400. Reasons included mountain bike craze (do not ride 100 miles on this style of bike), riders getting older with no new rides coming aboard, and there are only so many times a person will ride the tour.

The Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure continued to be one of the Columbus Council’s most successful endeavors. Under Tour Director Tom Barlow there were 2,650 participants travel in eastern Ohio. Communities visited were Medina, Hudson, Alliance, New Philadelphia, Coshocton, and Wooster.

Starting on the first of January the name of the organization officially was Columbus Outdoor Pursuits.

A backpacking school had 39 taking the course. This was two times the number anticipated. Interest in this activity has increased in recent years. There were 24 backpacking trips this year.

The boating program continued to operate a number of informative schools: Spring Basic Canoe, River Canoe, Kayak, Raft, Intermediate Canoe, and Fall Basic Canoe. All of these are