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THE REGION RECORD I VOLUME 5 NUMBER 1 . MARCH 1991

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VOLUME 5 NUMBER 1 THE REGION RECORD MARCH 1991

The Region Record is published four times a year by the Virginia Region of the National Speleological Society. Opinions expressed in the Region Record are those of the author, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the NSS, VAR, or any of their internal organizations.

No portion of this publication may be reproduced, except by the NSS or its internal organizations, without written permission of the Virginia Region.

Chairman Bill Bussey 120 Manhattan Court Cary, NC 28511 H (919)460-8968

Editor

REGION OFFICERS

Vice-Chairman Russ "Cave boy" Carter PO Box 478 Sharpsburg, MD 21782 H (301)432-6838

Secretary Tom Spina 3209 Sherry Court Va. Beach, VA 23464 H (804)420-6126

REGION RECORD STAFF

Treasurer Mary Barrett Route 1, Box 160-D Buena Vista, VA 24416 H (703)261-1642

Distribution Russ "Caveboy" Carter PO Box 478

Printing Bob Hoke 6304 Kaybro Street Laurel, MD 20707 H (301)725-5877

Evelyn Bradshaw 1732 Byron Street Alexandria, VA 22303 H (703)765-D669

Sharpsburg, MD 21782 H (301)432-6838

Printed_ by members-oUhe-O_C.Grotto..andtheEat.omac SpeleGtogiGaI--ClYb,.--

Front Cover: This months cover provided by Chris's Squires and Alderson.

March 2-3

March 9

March 16-17

March 23-26

May 3-5

June 30-July 5

Aug 29-Sept. 2

CAVING CALENDAR

Eastern Region NCRC Basic Cave Rescue Class, Catrer Caves KY. Contact Bruce Bannerman (304)743-5455.

Spring NSS BOG Meeting, Huntsville, AL. Contact Jeanne Pridmore or Vickie Nixion at the NSS Office. (205)852-1300.

Eastern Region NCRC Basic Cave Rescue Class, Bridgewater, VA. Contact Jeff Good (703)879-9777.

Appalachian Karst Symposium, Radford, VA. Contact The Ka$tnings at (703)639-4666.

SpringVAR, near Radford, VA. Contact Rose or Mike Davis (703)731-4812 between 5:30 and 10 pm.

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NSS Convention, Cobleskill, NY. Contact Thorn Engel (518)765-3699.

OTR, Daily 'IN.

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VOLUME 5 NUMBER 1 THE REGION RECORD MARCH 1991

WHAT I LEARNED

As some of you know, back In November I was involved in an Incident with Mr. Buddy Penley, owner of the Newberry entrance of Newberry-Banes Cave. In a nutshell; on a trip I led to the cave, I failed to pay Mr. Penley a $5 per person camping fee ($30 for the group) which he had stated when I called him asking permis­sion before the trip. Upon visiting with him after the trip, the subject of money never came up. He didn't mention It, but neither did I. As a fairly frequent vlsitor to the cave, I thought he knew me better, and I thought I knew him. I thought we were friends enough to forego this fee. I was wrong.

I found out that Mr. Penley was furious about this around two weeks later when Bob Lewis of the New River Grotto called. I called Buddy and tried in vain to work things out. He said that the cave was temporarily closed to all cavers from North Carolina; noting that this was the incident that broke the camels back. Apparently there had been other Incidents Involving other cavers from North Carolina. I sent an apology letter to him along with the money owed. Several recommended I do this. The money was very promptly returned.

This is a very quick overview of what happened. There was more involved in the bad decision I made at that time, and more has happened since. At no time did I loose my temper or raise my voice. What I did was wrong. It was a bad decision. It was a serious mistake. I take full and complete responsibility for It. No excuse or reason I have can justify this decision. I have made no attempt to downplay or cover up this. I want all cavers to know that I did not mean to cause Mr. Penley, VPI cavers, North Carolina cavers, nor the NSS, any harm or inconvenience.

Let me share with you what I have learned from this experience and Its aftermath as well as other related experiences. I do this in the hopes that all cavers will be more aware of their own, as well as others actions when dealing with landowners, and other cavers as well, in the future. Many of you might know and practice these and other tips already. Great! Be sure to keep in practice with these and share them with others.

1. Treat every landowner contact as if it were the very first. No matter how well one thinks they know a lando.vner, things can tappen, often beyond ones control, to affect the relationship. Never assume anything. If one doesn't know if something is OK, ask. Be careful of

becoming too familiar. Always be on best behavior. Show as much respect, courtesy and curiosity on the 25th visit as you did on the first.

2. Be alert for changes in body language, voice tone, er hesitant conversation. If this is normal, fine. But be aware of any changes. If pOSSible, the group leader might privately ask the landowner if there is something wrong. They may be upset with the last group of cavers who visited, or with someone in your group. Or they may be simply feeling badly or had a bad day.

3. Be aware of and responsible for what the rest of your group is dOing. Are your group members acci­dent damaging fences, trampling shrubs, scarring fields? Such rough behavior is often accidental, but nonethe­less damaging. If one can't traverse across' property softly, then It is better not to traverse It all.

4. Avoid the "Better to apologize than to ask permis­sion" syndrome. If you find yourself thinking this or rationalizing about anything in this manner, its time to abort the trip and leave.

5. If there is a problem with the landowner or your own party that you or other group members can't negotiate or buy your way out of; abort the trip and leave.

6. Little things don't mean a lot, they mean every­thingl No detail or action Is too small to ignore. The littlest things can make people immeasurably happy and proud. But the smallest of details overlooked can make many people quite upset.

7. What the landowner says, goes. Do exactly what they say. If you cannot follow their direction, leave. If they don't want you caving in their cave, you might attempt calm negotiation. If this fails, quietly leave. Be sure to give a full report to cavers in the local area

8. Do what you say you will do. If you say you will be out at a certain time, be out. If you say you will send the landowner some information, do It. Send what you have immediately, even if you don't have everything you need. Don't delay doing something because you don't have It then. Better to have two or three contacts than to have one delayed or no contact.

Continued on Page 16.

CHAIRMAN' SCRAWLS Page 3

MARCH 1991 VOLUME 5 NUMBER 1 THE REGION RECORD

A MESSAGE FROM THE VICE-CHAIRMAN

A FEW MORE WORDS ABOUT LANDOWNER RELATIONS

It seems that this issue is trending towards a theme: Lanowner Relations. How to deal with landowners Is becoming more and more Important to the organized caving community. One slip, one bad incident, one goof up and a cave can be closed forever. Landowner problems have placed more than one cave on the Region's Closed Cave List.

Over the six or so years that I have been involved with various survey projects In Alleghany County and else­where in the Region, I, and the others that I cave with, have had to deal with many landowners. Most have been receptive, some have been very helpful, some have been indifferent, some have been hesitant, and oniy one has ever completely turned us away. To what do we attribute this success? Simple, we treat land­owners the way we would like to be treated.

We do not: Lie to landowners, take advantage of landowners, disregard landowners ilstructions or desires. destroy landowners property, or camp on landowners land.

We do: Treat landowners with respect and dignity, explain why we would like to survey their cave, offer to make available to them all of the Information about their cave(s), follow through on any promises made to them, respect and follow their instructions even if they seem unfair to us, and intrude on a landowner as little as possible.

In fact, most landowners never see us again after we survey the cave(s) on their property and present them with the map(s). For most landowners this means that they see us twice; once for the survey and once to deliver the map. For caves in which we antiCipate multiple survey trips, we ensure that the landowner knows that we will need to come back before we start. That way there are no surprises for him, or for us.

Understanding and getting along with landowners is an art. To be good at landowner relations you need to understand where the landowner is coming from. You need to be able to relate to the landowners point of view, his background, his religious beliefs, his morals, and his attitudes. You must be able to feel out the situation and base your actions on what you perceive to be the correct approach.

In a recent NSS NEWS there was a letter from a new NSS member, describing how he and the others he was with were allowed Into a cave by a landowner after they told him they were in the NSS. A reasonable approach, especially since they were told, initially, that the cave was closed. This approach however, would probably get you turned away from a lot of caves, as a lot of landowners don't know the NSS from the IRS. Touting titles, acronyms, and membership in organizations usually don't impress "Good Old Boys" and face it, most land­owners around these parts are "Good Old Boys!"

Some landowners have offered to let us camp on their property while we were engaged in a long survey proj­ect. We have always politely thanked them, and de­clinedl Why? Because we like to keep our after caving activities to ourselves. There aren't a whole lot of people (let alone landowners) who understand our cave hard / play hard attitudes.

A while back, there was a grotto who offered to paint a landowners house. The landowner accepted the offer.

. A-few -weeks- -after -the- hotlse- was- painted- f had- the occasion to visit the cave. When I arrived, I found that several members from the grotto who painted the house camped in the landowners back yard. When I inquired why they were there, they stated that they had asked the landowner and had obtained permission. Well what the hell was the landowner supposed to say? Thanks for painting my house, but get the hell out? If you do something for a landowner DON'T demand or expect anything In return! Do it because you appreciate what they have done in the past. If you start expecting favors from landowners in return for doing favors for them you may soon find that the only time you can get under­ground is when you crawl into the culvert at the end of your driveway!

TheCaveboy

Attention NC Cavers

For Sale: Used Virginia License Plates. Good for admission to some Virginia caves. Cheap!

Call: The Caveboy , at 301-432-6838.

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The Region History Virainia Region

Guidebook

Region Record,

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VOLUME 5 NUMBER 1

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THE REGIONR'£CORD MARCH 1991

LEITERS TO THE EDITOR

Dear Editor,

Buddy Penley has said that any cars with North Carolina plates on them may just as well turn around and leave If they come down there.

Who is Buddy Penley?

Buddy Penley is a landowner who has made an impor­tant contribution to cavers and caving, permitting ac­cess to Newberry's, Buddy Penley's, and Paul Penley's Caves. All three are complex, deep, and significant.

Buddy's property is on the side of Big Walker Mountain, in Bland County, Virginia, locally known as Skydusky Hollow. The land has belonged to his family for genera­tions. For most of his eighty years he has made his living farming the property, and In todays economy, he de­serves respect for this If for no other reason.

For more than forty years cavers have been welcome to . explore, map, and study the caves there, and occasion­ally stay on the property. Newberry's was mapped in the early fifties by Earl Theirry and others during the early years of organized caving in southwest Virginia.

Record's of the and the recent TAG. Convention chronicle Bill Cud­dington's early work with vertical techniques in New­berry's.

Buddy has gotten to know cavers that come there, frequently taking time from his day to talk about things that concern him. Getting to know people: what they do, where they are from, about their families, taking time to find out about the new face In the group. Talk ranges from the local elections, the economy and farming, weather,local history, to other cavers and how they treat him.

More and more frequently now Buddy is faced with cavers he doesn't know and who want to go to the caves and use his property for camping. Better roads, im­proved vertical techniques, the spread of information about caves, and the growth of the sport have brought increasing numbers of cavers there. Everyone who comes wants something.

Buddy may not spend much time with these cavers, but if he Is greeted with respect and courtesy he will be amiable enough.

What does this have to do with North Carolina cavers?

Last fall a group of cavers from North Carolina came to Skydusky Hollow to go to Newberry's. They presumed to tell Buddy that they were going to camp in his field by Newberry's. Buddy will not allow anyone to usurp his control of his property. When the cavers realized their mistake and asked permission to camp there, they were told they could - for a five dollar fee. They agreed and camped there that night, but left the next day without paying.

Attempts to reconcile the situation by mailing the money to Buddy have failed. Buddy returned the money. He doesn't need the money he charged for camping there. The point is that he has a right to expect respect for his rights as a landowner.

Bill Bussey, of the North Carolina group, called Buddy and made matters worse. In the course of the conversa­tion, Bill pOinted out that the VPI. Grotto is allowed to camp on the property almost any time. Buddy ended the conversation saying that the V.P.I. cavers respected him and had helped with numerous projects on the farm such as fences and gates.

Bill Bussey is an experienced caver, is an officer of the Virginia region, and sits on the NSS BOG. He is not some nerd who doesn't know any better; he represents the leadership of the NSS.

What kind of leadership do we expect for our society? Shouldn't we expect our leadership to set an example, some standard to follow? Referring to Bussey's essay in the last is this what an experienced caver does? Leadership without example makes rheto­ric empty-headed. Can this leadership be trusted to make policy when self-centered, short-term interest threaten to create a loss for everyone?

Bill, to his credit, has apologized in person and in writing to the caving community. But it's like back-pedaling a ten speed bicycle down a steep hill: you don't slow down. North Carolina cavers are still not welcome at Penley's.

Not only has Buddy Penley made a Significant contribu­tion to our sport, but any landowner who allows access to their caves and property does. But more than that, they have their own lives and stories to tell.

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MARCH 1991 VOLUME 5 NUMBER 1 THE REGION RECORD

Enough landowner problems are created by uninformed and occasional cavers without our own membership screwing up. How would our society have grown if the early members had aggravated landowners to the point that we were denied access to their property?

Sure, Buddy allows VPI to camp on his property; this is the result of a rapport and trust that has developed over many years. More than that, it's Buddy's right as a landowner to decide who may or may not use his property. Fairness doesn't have anything to do with it. It doesn't matter if you run to the door waving NSS membership cards, a discourse on the scientific value of entering his cave, or if you claim to have years of caving expertise; he may decide that he doesn't want you there because he has never seen you before, or because you have a funny accent, or because one of your legs is shorter than the other, or you have a blue T-Shirt on, or you don't say good morning, or because your car has North Carolina license plates.

Sincerely, Bob AJderson

VIRGINIA CAVE OWNER

NEWSLETTER ON ITS WAY

During the January 26,1991 Virginia Cave Board meet­ing, the final draft of the Virginia Cave Owner's Newslet­ter was approved. Phil Lucas, Cave Board member and the President of the VSS, will be providing mailing labels for over 1600 cave owners from the VSS files. This issue of the newsletter has a two-fold purpose. First, a infor- . mation card will be enclosed with the newsletter. This card, when returned by the recipient, will be used by the VSS to verify it's landowner data base. The newsletter will also disseminate cave and karst related educational material to the landowners.

This issue is sched uled for distribution in mid-March and the Virginia Cave Board is planning to produce a second newsletter before the end of 1991. A few copies of the newsletter will be avalable during Spring VAR for members to look at.

Marry Barrett

Dear Editor:

I started caving back In 1967. Difficult though it might be to accept, I must certainly have erred during those years. I don't know when ... nor under what circumstances ... but, like the comedy team of Bakker & Swaggert, I'm not perfect. And, Lord knows, I haven't tried. With that I beg the forgiveness of the "little guys" in caving who have been snUbbed, the "speleo-men­tors" who have been slandered ... and most of all to the speleo-politicians and armchair-hardcores (who proba­bly deserved every psychological punch and kick they ever got). I fully understand that everyone has a place ... even if it is under foot... and I go all but out of my way to defend that place for each and every one of us, for no matter how incompetent, un-coordinated and stupid we may be it's important to maintain an air of confidence and a sense of well-being. Okay?

Tom Spina

Send corrections/additions to the Closed/Limited Cave List to:

Bob Hoke 6304 Kaybro Street

Laurel, MD 20707 H (301)725-5877

CAMPING IN BLAND

COUNTY

If you are planning to cave in the Skydusky Hollow area, camping is available nearby without imposing on Buddy Penley. There is a National Forest campground within eight miles.

The Walnut Flats Campground has cleared spaces in the woods for tents, some lantern poles, a few tables, outhouses, and a water pump.

If you are heading south on Route 42, turn right on Route 606 just past the Bland Correctional Center (if you are going North, this turn is about four miles north of Cran­don.) Follow 606 for about one mile, past a lumber mill and a country store/gas station, and turn right onto a well-graded Forest Service road that is marked 671. Follow this road for about two miles to the Walnut Flats signpost and turn left Into the campground.

Bob AJderson

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: f , ,>:r:, : THE REGION'tt£CORD VOLUME 5 NUMBER 1

, ' ' : .' MARCH 1991

THE "ADOPT-A SPOT" PROGRAM

[ Oh-blah-dee ... oh-blah-dah .. , life goes on Hmmm ... mmm but what do you get out of all of this! bro .. .la .. .la .. .la .. .lHe goes on ... ]

Well, you get a bunch of neat stuff, like; biodegradable

Ahhemmm. .. 1 realize that the first few months after trash bags, a flaming-orange vest...to die for, and a Christmas are a somber time. A time for loosening that secret decoder-ring! In addition, a sign bearing the belt (or skirt) and enjoying the new-found propensity of adoptive organizations name is placed upon the adopted one's girth. A time given to hours of wistful contempla­ spot. Now thisIs great for cavers, because it allows them tlon before the roaring crackle and warmth of the televl-, to adopt the cave itself, and not Just the road to it. sion set. A time set aside for mundane, time-honored traditions, such as: molding weird cave-formations out So get excited (not that excited you'll stain the rug)! of two-month old bread stuffing, forging wire-chocks from AlIlt Mllie's fruit cake (what are those green things?), But, of course, there is a downside. and finally removing that mistletoe from your belt-buckle.

Rules. It's a time for giving.

Well, here's a synopsis: So saying, it appears the perfect opportunity to jump head-first Into some kind of selfless, altruistic frenzy! 1.

Well ... maybe not.

But here's a nice idea anyway. It's called the "Adopt-A­ 2.

Spot" Program. It Is administered by the Common­wealth of Virginia Department of Waste Management 3.

(DWM).

It's a great program. 4.

--But please! Don't confuse it with other programs of a 5.

less than dubious nature. Such as the "Adopt-A-Cynical Editor" program, whereupon the VAR adopted Russ 6.

Carter. Or the Infamous Tom Spina debacle, "Adopt-A­Wench." Which undoubtedly would have caused Televi­sion-Evangelists across the nation to thump more than 7.

their bibles had an innocuous spelling error not altered it to the "Adopt-A-Wrench" program (praise the lord). Though it did cause Tom some embarrassment, he did 8.

get a dozen crescent-wrenches out of the deal.

But, anyway, the "Adopt-A-Spot" Program is legit and 9.

here's how it works.

The Intent of the program is to enable JOE AVERAGE 10.

(that's you and me) the opportunity to prove Uncoln wrong and sweat for free. By keeping an area clean of 11.

litter and other undesirable (see George Dasher) for a period of two-years. The individual, organization, or 12.

business must apply for a permit from one of the many coordinators located nearby. Adoptable locations; parks, vacant lots, walkways, and other littered area's 13.

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Must be sponsored by local litter control organization, ecology club, or government agency.

Proposed area's must be approved.

DWM reserves right to refuse signs or other supportive materials.

Approved forms must be utilized.

Minimum of two-years participation.

Members less then 15 years of age must be supervised by an adult.

Participants must hold at least two safety meetings a year.

Coordinators must work with DWM to supply safety Information and materials.

Coordinator assists In scheduling disposal of trash.

Participants encouraged to recycle.

Sign supplied.

Coordinators must monitor the program In their localities.

Activity report must be filed after each clean-up.

MARCH 1991 VOLUME 5 NUMBER 1 THE REGION RECORD

14. Encouraged to schedule two of the four clean-ups in April and October to coincide with the statewide cleanups and Recycling Month.

15. DWM reserves right to revise terms (catch 22).

Wooo ... weee ...

Well, so much for that.

Instead of giving a lengthy list of local coordinators, here's the (Grand Pooh-bah) address and number of the person in charge. If you need a number fast give Russ or myself a call.

Virginia Department Of Waste Management c/o Mary German 11th Floor, Monroe building Richmond, Va. 23219

(804) 789-8679

So ... that's it.

But stay tuned readers for Russ' next putrid-packed periodical when he shows no shame and rakes our own Bill Bussey over the hot, orange coals ...

[Hey ... Bungalow Bill what cave-owner relations did you chill...Bungalow BilL]

Andy Reeder

CAVERS: ECONOMIC

ANOMALIES

One basic truth Is self-evident: cavers are among the cheapest, chintziest, low-ballin' people on earth! Not all of 'em, mind you ... but, as is often the case, a broad generalization or opinion has been molded by the most outrageous faction.

On a recent surveying trip I invited a few old friends to participate. The project had been going on for some time but they had been tied up with projects of their own ... or my teams had filled up. But this weekend we were ready and our act was together .. .for a while.

The eggs hit the fan ... literally ... on Saturday morning. I led the entourage to the usual eatery for breakfast. It's

the favorite of the cave owner and I frequently bump into him and his wife there. Besides, past experience has educated the other project participants in the ways of the other eating establishments in the area. Still, the initial bitch by my friends that morning was "high prices." A breakfast cost about $5.00. Sure, higher than some ... less than others. I came out to cave ... NOT to shop for breakfast. Being a sub-contractor I know all about being low bidder. There are no bargains ... and you're DAMN lucky if you get a small part of what you pay for. The "squeakers" (That's the Alleghany County Cave Survey's term for tight-wads) moaned and com­plained throughout their meal before finally paying their dues and heading for their vehicles.

Ah, their vehicles! Both of 'em own utility-type vehicles sporting high ground clearance and low, low fuel mile­age. They're loaded with expensive down sleeping bags, a jungle of communication equipment, coolers filled with beer, cartons of cigarettes stashed under the seats and their spice (plural of spouse).

Enter the Caveboy (from Maryland) and me (from Virginia Beach) ... both traveling solo. It'll cost Russ $5.22 for gas for the weekend. My fuel bill will total nearly $16.00 (but, remember, I drive twice as far, only get 42 miles per gallon and use the mid-grade gaso­line!).

In the cave the squeakers and their spice start scrap­ping like pit bulls. Oniy the week before, a friend recommended that I get married. The battles blazed before me. No 1 don't really need a sparring partner; ...

nor do I need any help spending money. Besides, with one less parasite in tow I can pretty much afford to have breakfast where I damn well please. For dinner that evening the choice was not left up to me. It seemed fashionable to put one's money on an uneducated guess rather than the fruits of trial and error. But, I must admit, their choice (which WAS based on a suggestion by the cave owner) wasn't a bad one. Turned out to be a long drive into town for a pizza and salad buffet.

Here's where Russ and I really screwed 'em! We rode together in HIS vehicle. Thirty miles worth of fuel in his little miser, split two ways, tallied 33 each! We were beat in' em at their own game!! Their gas hogs ate nearly $2.00 worth EACH! The higher priced breakfast suddenlybecame less significant! Before the night was done they bought two breakfasts and two dinners each ... and had no one to share the gas expenses. And I guarantee neither one of 'em are gettln' any more than l am!

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VOLUME 5 NUMBER 1 THE REGION RECORD MARCH 1991

Now, according to squeakers, a "good" eatery Is one that offers "unlimited refills" or "all-you-can-eat" ANYTHING ... even if it's just lemon wedges and ketchup. It affords the squeakers the opportunity to compete with their vehicles for fuel consumption honors. Besides, not having to leave a tip can partly make up for the atrocious gas mileage.

Feeling that they were on a roll (and totally oblivious to the preceding evening's fuel costs) they demanded to select a more appropriately priced breakfast establish­ment for Sunday. With the money Russ and I saved on Saturday's dinner we decided to splurge and take my little 42 mpg gas-piglet to breakfast. Our "guests" led the way to an eatery that became all too familiar to us quite some time ago. Russ and I grinned.

Once seated we were left to ourselves for quite some time before we were offered menus. When they finally arrived the menus were found to offer a wide variety of options: one egg, toast and jelly; two eggs, toast and jelly; one egg, no toast or jelly; two eggs, no toast or jelly; one egg, bacon, toast and jelly; one egg, bacon, no toast or jelly .... and on and on.

Upon ordering, one of our guests read the fine print at the bottom of the place mat... "With parties of six or more a 15% gratuity will be added to the bill." By now Russ and I graduated from grinning to chuckling. Both guests counted first clockwise around the table, then counter­clockwise. Try as they might they could count no less than six. They burned up their asses ... now they had to sit on their blisters! I was truly amazed that they didn't make their spice move to another table to save a few cents.

The best was yet to come! The service (or lack of it) was what initially turned off the project participants long ago. In order to keep the cold food from drying out this establishment kept their entrees moist with a double dose of 10W-30! Russ and I began to get kind of punchy and giddy at this stage. Only one of the spice mustered up the courage to comment on the "kinda greasy eggs." Her point was met with a stifling glance from her hus­band. Yep, for every action there's an equal and oppo­site reaction (I know, I checked!). Of course, before hitting the road for home the search is on for the cheapest gaSOline in the state. My ex-mother-In-Iaw was a professional shopper, too. I was more glad to be rid of her than my wife! Meredith Hall once told me that guys don't have bright colored feathers. Instead, I guess, they boast of the low price they pay for gasoline. You'll never hear about how much gas was spent GET­TING TO the cheaper gas ... how much TIME was wasted.

I mean, it's not like we're purchasing 10,000 gallons. A 10 per gallon difference in price is usually only applied to a 10 gallon fill up .. .for a total"splurge" of$1.00. With but ONE passenger the extra buck Is split two ways ... 50 each. No, a 50 differential on a 350 mile drive is an issue that does not merit my involvement. I'd rather ride alone, foot the whole fuel bill and not be subject to such whining and bickering.

The funny part of all this is that the biggest squeakers also carry the biggest wallets! They always get time­and-a-half for anything over forty hours; their paid vacation time accrues to a point at which they're actually FORCED to take leave; they have "holidays" like Martin Luther King Day, Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, Inde­pendence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans' Day, Election Day, Pearl Harbor Day, Halloween, Thanks­giving, Elvis' Birthday, Coronation Day, Yom Kippur, Anniversary of Woodstock. .. not to mention Christmas and New Years. I suppose with so much time to spend money one should be pretty careful! My point is that very few of the self-proclaimed poverty cases in the "organ­ized caving community" are that at all. It's simply a case of prioritization. Making fullest use of every second available to me is on top of my list. While caving is NOT on top of my list it does rank above fancy cars, stylish clothes, gauche living conditions and public image. Restraint in regard to low priority spending (high-bucks/ low mileage vehicles, mass quantities of alcohol, any quantity of morphine, television sets, friends, golf balls and soap) rewards me with a surplus of funds for high priority spending (good food, imported beer, silly vaca­tions, Ferrari rentals, rare coins, guitars and out-of-print books).1 guess the aggravating thing about this "pseudo­poverty" issue is that these folks aren't up front enough to simply say "Gee, Tom, I've biown so much money on gasoline, auto insurance and solar powered vibrator attachments that I have nothing left with which to feed myself." ... or ... "I've gotta buy the cheapest gas I can in case I'm back on the bottle next week."

As much as they refuse to acknowledge it ... it all comes down to priority.

Top priority right now is to save on my electric bill by cutting off the word processor, putting out the lights, lowering the thermostat and going to bed. I'll apply the savings toward a decent breakfast on my next caving trip.

Tom Spina

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VOLUME 5 NUMBER 1 THE REGION RECORD MARCH 1991

I WAS A TEENAGE CAVE-CONSERVATIONIST (PRT.II)

Howdy ... kiddies ...

It's time once again for a visit from that nefarious-wizard of the compost heap ... Cap'n Cucumber and his AII­Vegetable Dancin Revue ...

Taa ... dahh ...

Not impressed, huh?

Well, in reality (what little of It there Is) it's just another boring epistle from one of the Virginia Regions Conser­vation Chairs- actually ... Ron Morton is a sparse, wooden stool, While I am a fat "Lazy-boy" recliner (c'mon ladies form a line).

But, I digress!

It's time to bring all you buck-a-roo's up on the latest conservation chit-chat around the region. However, since I seem to be fresh out of those cheap telepathic mirrors they used in "Romper-Room" to discern the myriad happenings of the area. And since I can only print what has been sent to me. And since I haven't received DIDLEY (Bo knows)! I guess I'll just have to bore you with what I have first-hand knowledge of.

Ohh ... my GAWD ... Martha ... it's worse than cousin Elmo's vacation-slides from Nebraska ...

Yes.

That's right.

During the 1990 OTR melee there was some activity at the Bowden Cave site. With ladders hanging akimbo from their vehicles, members of the New River Valley Grotto circled the campground like sharks. Unfortu­nately, word was already out that they were attempting to clean the entrance area of Bowden Cave. The crowd parted like the Red Sea. Phrases from the fleeing multi­tudes went like this:

"Sorry ... got to go on a photo-trip in Bobcat."

"Either take your clothes off or GET OUT!"

"It's not graffitl",it's art."

Well, cutting to the crux of the story. The cavers did find the cave. They did find the graffiti. And they did manage to clean-up most of the entrance room and pass out trash bags to passing sport-cavers. But the writing outside the cave did not come off. Sun-baked, oil-based paint Is a bitch I Throwing acid on it only confirmed that the presence of calcite in limestone.

Big deal.

But a lot was accomplished (not the least of which was getting anyone to leave OTR at all) and the assorted cavers left the cave looking better than it had before they had come. They worked hard, and that's what it's all about.

Moving on.

This years Fall Virginia Region (not area ... thanks Lee) bash found cavers bivouacked at the Natural Chimneys Regional Park, near Grotto's, Virginia. The immense towers provided an Ideal setting for an almost dry (weatherwise) event. Conservation activities were cen­tered around the refurbishment of Grand Cavern's gravel commercial trail. Over two tons of gravel was hand­hauled into the cave by over twenty cavers. Park Direc­tor Leatherwood seemed impressed that cavers had the desire to help a commercial cave. He, and his crew, supplied shovels, rakes, wheelbarrows, and bucket. The cavers furnished the muscle.

The cave was NICE.

Cavers managed to finish about three-quarters of the commercial trail. It was back-breaking work. This all took place while tourists ambled through the cave. Members of the New River Valley Grotto made up the bulk of the volunteers, but other grotto's present in­cluded: Tidewater, BRG, Tri-State, RASS, and KARST. If I missed someone .. .! apologies! The cavers involved worked exceedingly hard and deserve praise for their

uffaw ... . ) ""Y ' efforts (BANG ... sound of failing soapbox). Iau re crazy. (uffa g

"Beat it, fat boy." On another note.

"Can't. .. 1iisshhh ... bbeeennn drinkuunn ... " This Halloween provided the backdrop for the "Second

Page 10

VOLUME 5 NUMBER 1 THE REGION RECORD MARCH 1991

Annual Dixie Cavern's Haunted Cave." Things were a little different this year. The New River Valley Grotto Invited nearby Blue Ridge Grotto to co-host the event (sharing the cash and the blame), and they consented.

The event ran for five days (October 27-31) and lasted about three and a half hours each night. Over 4,500 attendee's took advantage of the event. This year, In addition to the "scary-stuff", information cards were handed out with a short conservation message, the hosting organizations name's and contacts, and a gen­eral outlay of raised revenue's. Also, the card "sported" a likeness and description of the rare "Dixie Salaman­der." A table was set-up along the entrance-way, forcing waiting patrons to pass by (and enjoy): posters and displays on bats and Karst landforms; pamphlets on bats, groundwater, and caves (thanks NSS and Hub­bard); and a multitude of video-vlgnette's (Dave's prom­ised tape of Mary Sue Socky's famous "snake-dance" never materialized) of cave related topics.

A run through the cave acquainted visitors with a variety of oddities including: a shooting snake (not what you think); a hanging-caver; Frankenstein (a real-life cop); chain-saw maniac; dinner with the dead (not Grateful); swinging-caver( is there another kind?); swamp thing; electrocuted geologist; an Ill-fated "Elvis"; ard the obliga­tory screaming damsel.

There was much more ...

One of the many highlights occurred when the wire supporting "Elvis" broke, sending him hurtling towards a group of wide-eyed tourists who thought it was sup­posed to do that.

"Damned .. .1 thought he was dead."

Fortunately, no one was hitl

It was a gruesome good time.

Over thirty-five cavers donated countless hours for the project. They did a fantastic job.

The owner, Connie Hausemann, also did a great job. Her "Ninja-Turtle" outfit sure split a few ribs in the area. Connie and the Dixie employee's not only fed the cavers pizza ( about twenty), but provided a much needed keg of "cave-elixir" for the group.

And the money.

This year The New River Valley.Grotto and the Blue­Ridge Grotto received a check for cave-conservation in the amount of $1,500. And here's how they spent it:

NSS (Save-A-Cave Fund) $500.00 Virginia Cave Board $100.00 VSS 01a. Cellars) $100.00 American Cave Conservancy $50.00 NRVG James Cave Fund $375.00 BRG Gen. Conserv. Fund $375.00 Net Total $1,500.00

Wowl

It was a lot of hard work ... but it was worth it.

There were lots of solid kudos, but there was also a vast amount of Intangible rewards present. The obvious joy of providing a "safe" alternative to the traditional cele­brations c:i Halloween. Educating the public in the unique and myriad forms of karst and cave-life. Perpetuating a common understanding between commercial-cave proprietor and caver. And the fostering of "together­ness" in a shared experience between cavers them­selves.

And .. .let's not forget my personal favorite ... scaring the living snot out the indigenous population.

YesI There Is a god.

Well ... that's just about it kids ...

Did I forget anything?

And remember ... if you guys and gals are up to any con­servation mischief ... drop me a line so I can blow your horn ... wait ... that's not what I meant...

Andy Reeder P.O.Box 1355 Dublin,Va.24084 (703)674-6501

Anyway ... that's It from Cap'n Cucumber (by the way ... a cucumber ain't gots no hands ... see ... so if I can write ... so can you) and his ALL-Vegetable Dancin Revue ...

Andy Reeder

Page 11

MARCH 1991 VOLUME 5 NUMBER 1 THE REGION RECORD

The Totally Unapologetic and True Story of the Discovery of the Crystal River in Paxton's Cave

Maybe it's because we didn't want it to end. Maybe we're just mean. Maybe it was just to easy to get away with ... But, for two hours we had Tom Spina believing that there Is a Crystal River in Paxton's Cave: of epic size and leading to boundless virgin cave.

It was maybe the last Paxton's survey trip. Borrowing tactics from the Gulf War, fourteen or fifteen or sixteen of us initiated saturation mapping the last few feet of unsurveyed passage in the cave. Tom headed to other parts of the cave with some Tidewater cavers and geologist Dave Hubbard to look for former phreatic dip tubes.

After the trip, dave West encountered Tom first and announced, deadpan, that we had found a river at the end of our survey: going, with leads. Tom believed it and left to reserve tables for pizza.

"How can you be so mean? He believed you, " Linda Baker implored.

The rest of the surveyors had Joined Dave, and we considered the wonderful opportunity that was now open to us.

"We really should tell him you know," said Linda.

After the short drive from the cave, we walked into Cucci's for dinner and found Tom and his crew seated at the table which they had littered with pizza pans and beer mugs.

"Was there really a river? How big? Where are the notes?" asked Tom, his face open with wonder.

"Hoke has them."

"The water is about this deep and there is this much air space," said Dave, indicating depths and sizes with his hands.

"We're going to need wet suits?" said Tom, looking over. "In Paxton's? Who would have believed it? How much water is there ? Really? Bob? "

"Well, you're familiar with the Sinks of Gandy, aren't you?" I said, suppressing a giggle as I headed for the salad bar.

"Who took notes? Here's Alderson's and Jim White's;

where's Hokes?"

"I've still got them in the car. When's the next trip? How about April first?"

"April Fools Day? Nah, are you kidding? I don't trust you guys. How's the last weekend in March? Hoke, go get your notes. Wow! Wet suits in Paxton's! I wonder if my sheet will be wide enough to lay out the entire map now? "

"He really believes you. You shouldn't be doing this, Linda said In an aside as Hoke returned with the sketch pad he had improvised from a "Beagle Magic" school folio.

Spina looked over tile sketch Hoke handed him be­tween several bites on his pizza and a swig of beer.

"Is this it?" Tom Jabbed the sketch with his finger.

"No Tom. That's where we started."

"Where's the river at?"

"Oh well, it must be on Dave's sketch."

"It looks like the map won't be drawn up in time for this year's convention. Maybe I can finish the Endless Caverns map for this year's convention instead."

Spina leaned forward and looked down the table at Dave. "Do you have your sketch?"

"I didn't sketch today."

"Then where is the ... oh ... Oh!"

Tom fell back in his chair, put his hands on the table and dropped his head forward. For, at that moment, he realized that there was no Crystal River In Paxton's, that there would be no more mapping there, and he was going to have to draw the map.

The rest of us howled with laughter.

"How can everyone be so mean?" Linda said.

Bob Alderson

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VOLUME 5 NUMBER 1 THE REGION RECORD MARCH 1991

HINTS AND TIPS FROM ITALIAN LIPS

The Tidewater Grotto is conducting a dual purpose project. One purpose Is to generate an up-to-date map of Crossroads Cave In Bath County, Virginia. The sec­ond purpose (but not necessarily so In order of signifi­cance) Is that of exposing cavers to the art of surveying. This is not to say that every partiCipant will grow up to be a George Dasher or a Bill Balfour (or that ANY of the participants will even grow up AT ALLI), but often new cavers have no more of an Idea where maps come from than where babies come from. Toilet seats are the source of neither!

All seriousness aside, an interesting point was driven home on a Crossroads survey trip a few months ago. About a dozen shots Into the survey "lead tape" set the zero mark on station. I pulled the tape taught...then SLACK! About a foot-and-a-half of tape broke off on the lead end. What to do?? I instructed "lead tape" to simply hold the next "even foot" mark on station for the remainder of the survey (in this case 2.0 feet). Immedi­ately "book" offered to deduct two feet from each tape reading. "Lead tape" wisely countered that It might be confusing to do this since" book" already is dealing with azimuths, indinatlons, LRCFs, sketching and what-have­you. "Lead tape's" idea was for me to deduct two feet from the tape measurement and call out the "corrected" value. I know me better than anyone else cares to know! There's no way I wouidn't forget somewhere along the line to subtract two. And there's no way in hell I'd ever remember which shot or shots I forgot about if in fact I ever remembered I forgot In the first place! Is this starting to make sense or none of the below?

Now,let's go back several years. George Dasher taught me, and has preached to indiscriminate masses, to simply make a note in the book to the effect that all subsequent shots must have X feet deducted before the data is reduced ... and to continue reading and recording just as before. In my terms: "Read what you see and write what you hear." I had no reason to follow George's advice ... but I had no reason NOT to follow George's advice. Of course, none other than If the system didn't work I always had George to blame!

For years I blindly adhered to this principle with no problems whatsoever ... except for an occasional tongue lashing from a computer wiz who failed to read the notes. Then it happened! On one of my projects we figured four or five more shots would close a loop and we'd call it a day. Then about 3 feet popped off the lead end of the tape. For some reason "Spina the Gray"

consented to let "bun-tape" deduct four feet from his readings. After one sleazy shot we commenced to jamb the instrument reader (bun-tape) into the constriction to help clear the route from within. The next shot was a backslght. "Lead tape" was now "bun-tape" and called out "eleven point six five." I gave this guy too much credit. He was more concerned with getting his ass through than he was with his math. He forgot to subtract four feet. I entered 11.65. Under a tad less pressure he remembered to deduct four feet on the next several shots ... 1 think. Finally closing the loop I happened to ask ... outside the cave, of course ... if four feet had been deducted from all his readings. He claimed all shots except the first were reduced. So ... 1 deducted 4 feet from the first shot of the loop .. .forgetting that they OTHER GUY read the first shot and DID deduct 4 feet.

Back at the computer, nothing was working out. I get a long distance phone call to the effect of "What the hell were you guys doin' in there last weekend?" Some time later I found that my stand-In "bun-tape" was only subtracting 3 feet Instead of four. In six traverses we had one four feet short, one four feet too long and four were one foot too long. George was right!

The key to utilizing a broken tape lies primarily in the hands of the note taker. BE SURE TO MARK PLAINLY IN THE BOOK WHERE TO START DEDUCTING ... AND HOW MUCH TO DEDUCT. Then duties resume as usual.

The other smidgeon of responsibility lies with "lead tape." He simply has to have enough sense to set the next nearest whole foot (or meter) mark on the station. Then again, business as usual.

Well, needless to say, I politely asserted myself on that Crossroads trip and things went along quite smoothly ... just as George always said they would.

Thanks, George!

Tom Spina

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MARCH 1991 VOLUME 5 NUMBER 1 THE REGION RECORD

THE NRVG INVITES YOU TO:

SPRING VAR/CAVE ESCAPE 1991

Come camp, cave, and carouse with us. We want to see you there.

SPRING VAR/CAVE ESCAPE 1991 AT A GLANCE

When: The gate opens at 5 pm on Friday, May 3. The campground closes at 5 pm Sunday, May 5.

Where: The VAR site Is located about 3 miles off of 1-81 at exit 34, just south of Radford, Virginia (see map below).

Admission: $12 for adults, $8 for kids 7-17, ages 6 and under free.

What you get:

Tent camping Friday and Saturday, facilities include bathrooms with showers.

Traditional VAR refreshments Friday and Saturday nights.

Dinner Saturday evening in the Indoor dining facility.

Lots of caves within an hours drive. Sign-up for trips at registration.

Other activities include volleyball, and plenty of room for frisbee throwing etc. A river also borders the campground and is available for tubing, swimming, etc., but expect the water to be cold.

Spring VAR business meeting Sunday morning.

For more information call: Rose or Mike Davis at 703-731-4812 between 5:30 and 10 pm.

Directions: down Route 605 you will encounter a 90 degree turn to the leftl Watch out!

Take Exit 34 off of 1-81. After the 2.7 miles you will see a country store on the

Watch for the signs I left. Turn left on the gravel road just before the store.

to

pass and turn left on Route 605. intersection.

Take the road bearing to the right and go throuught the

If you are taking the Northbound exit, go over the over­ Go down the gravel road for about .4 miles an

if you are taking the Southbound exit, turn right at the gate.stop sign at the top of the ramp, then turn left on Route

605 (about 50 yards). The campground is about a mile further.

Go 2.7 miies down Route 605. CAUTION 1 .5 miles

Page 14

SSNUMBER------------��--

THE REGION. RECORD VOLUME 5 NUMBER 1 MARCH 1991

ISLAND FORD REGION PROJECT

publication you don't want to over look! Future issues will include features on projects such as: r-------------------------------------,

I I would like to subscribe to the Virginia Cellars. I

Inclosed please find $10.00 for the next 4 issues.I I Name I Street address I

State ZIPPity I

I end money and form to:

Well here Is a short update on the Island Ford Cave Region Conservation Project that WaS approved at the .last VAR meeting.

The Virginia Region will be participating in the Virginia Department of Waste Management's Adopt-A-Spot program (see Andy's article), The. paper work has been sent to the state and should be approved soon.

VAR will be the first organization to use this program in Alleghany County. so the DWM is planning some media coverage for the kick-off. This shoul.d give VARa good chance to get our cave canservaJion message out to the . . . . public.

I am also seeking a volunteer that would be interested in handleing public relations and coordination with civic groups that we would like to Involve in the project. The

job would include contacting. convincing, and coordi­nating groups that may want to help; contacting the local news media (radio and newspaper?) and talking them Into providing some kind of public service mes­sages as appropriate. If this sounds like something that you wouuld like to do call me.

The first clean-up will be held in Late July or early August. We will concentrate on removing all trash, and graffiti removal in and around the entrance area. The other seven clean-ups that we will do in accordance with the program will continue graffiti removal in the re­mainder of the cave.

Grottos should make plans now to volunteer for one of the remaining clean-ups. I will be soliciting grottos for volunteers at the Spring VAR.

The Caveboy

THE VIRGINIA CELLARS

Do you cave in the Virginia Region? Are you interested in cave surveying, exploration,biology. or geology? Do you like to look at cave maps? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then why not subcribe to the Virginia Cellars. The Virginia Cellars is the publication of the Virginia Speleological Survey. It is usually published quarterly (although it has been very irregular lately) and is available to NSS members at a subscription rate of $10.00 for 4 issues (so no matter how Irregular you still get your money's worth).

The Paxtons Cave survey and map, Sandstone Caves of The Jackson River Gorge. Alleghany County, Va.; a progress report and Cave maps of the Lee County Survey undertaken during Dirty Old Men in 1990; Ar­ticles and maps by Dave Hubbard on caves that have been mined for Onyx In Va.; and many other cave maps and articles of Intrest to Virginia Cavers.

If you cave or survey in Virginia, or even if you just collect caving related publications, the Virginia Cellars is one

Virginia Cellars % Phil Lucas 4411 Fallen Oak Dr. Chantilly, Va. 22021

L ____________ ___________ ______________

Page 15

I

MARCH 1991 VOLUME 5 NUMBER 1 THE REGION RECORD

CAVING PROJECTS

The Caving Projects section is Intended to provide information to the Region's Cavers on cave related projects in the Region. If you have a project that you would like to have In this column. let me know. Some projects have special requirements. Contact the person listed if you think you can help.

WVACS Project weekends are the second full weekend of each month. WVACS is in valved in the survey and study of the caves of Greenbriar County. WV. Newcomers must be sponsored by a WVACS m mber. Contact Bob Handley 304-727-1420

Alleghany County Cave Survey Trips are scheduled almost weekly. The ACCS.ls resurveying all caves in Alleghany County, VA and locating new caves. Contact the "Cave boy" 30 1-432-6838.

Cave Mountain Cave Survey The DC Grotto Is resurveying Cave Mountain Cave. Contact Bob Hoke 301-725-5877

Simmons-Mingo Cave Project. DC Grotto again. Promise to train riew surveyors. Contact Linda Devine 703-255-1584

Rockbridge County Cave Survey

RASS Is conducting a resurvey of all Rockbridge County, VA Caves. Contact Mary Barrett 703-261-1642 or Ted Andrus 804-239-9135

Shenandoah County Cave Survey

The Annapolis Grotto Is surveying the caves of Shenandoah County, VA. Contact Brad Blase 301-588-2841

Botetourt County Cave Survey

The Blue Ridge Grotto is conducting a survey of the caves of Botetourt County, VA. Contact Randy Winoker 703-586-3941

Rockingham County Cave Survey

Gary and Wade Berdeaux are conducting a survey of Rockingham Co. Caves. Contact them at 1-800-544-CAVE

Cave Ridge Study The Centeral Carolinla Borehole Grotto is conducting a study of Cave Ridge, Smythe Co. Va. Contact Bill Bussey at 919-460-8968

Scrawls continued

9. Go the extra mile. If you can help or give anything, give it. Take time to learn what the landowners Interests are, even if you visit their cave only once. Send them any clippings you see on the subject. Drop them a postcard from convention or vacations. Send them a birthday card. Offer to take them out to dinner sometime. this goes along with #6 above.

10. Let local cavera know immediately If there Is any change in cave access or a problem with the land­owner. Local cavers, conSidering their longer term relationship with the landowner, might be able do some-

thing about the change. Even if it was your fault, tell them everything you know about the situation. This means hints, hunches, past experiences in addition to the facts of the situation.

11. Say nothing bad about other cavers In front of the landowner. If you can't say anything nice, then don't say it. Remember, most landowners look at cavers as all In the same group, as well as oftentimes the same person I Saying something bad about other cavers in their eyes reflects badly about you and your group.

Page 16

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Address -----------------------------------------------------------------

------------------------------------- ------ZIP _____________ _

______________ _

VOLUME 5 NUMBER 1 THE REGION RECORD MARCH 199 1

12.lf the landowner says something bad about other

cavers, find out why they are mad. Get all the informa- Yes, I have learned a lot about dealing with landowners, tion you can (See #10). Call or write the person involved dealing with other cavers, and about myself, in these last Immediately. The caver might not be aware of a prob- few months. Perhaps the most important thing learned lem. Get their side of the story. Tell them everything you is: heard with as much information as you can.

14. Its easier to prevent something from happening

13. If one is angry enough about anything to write a than to attempt to fIX and live with it after it does letter based on hear-say or rumor, one should be happen. angry enough to go to the trouble of collecting the

facts from all sides. Before writing that letter to the Hopefully we will all think about some of these things editor, call or write those involved. Tell them why you are learned when next we go caving. angry. There are reasons for everything. Whether they are valid in your mind Is another thing. But at least find Bill Bussey out as much as possible.

ATTENTION NON-SUBSCRIBERS !!!

AND SUBSCRIBERS

If you are wondering how this issue of the Region record found its way to your door, or even if your not, let me explain. The mail-person put It there! Why, you might ask! Well if you attended a Region Meeting $3.00 of the fee you paid are given to the Region as dues. Your Region dues, In part, are used to provide you with this newsletter. The remaining money is used to provide grants to organizations and persons doing speleo-stuff. Now you might be wondering if, in an alcohol induced blackout, you unknowingly attended a Region Meeting, let me put your mind at ease. If you are new to caving or if you haven't been to a Region Meeting for a while (or at all), this issue is being sent to you on a complimentary/trial basis. But like all good things, you don't get much for free! Look at the mailing label. If it has a "P" on it or if the date is within the next six months, you probably won't get another issue, unless you act nowl If you want to keep up on what's happening In the Virginia Region, send In the handy form provided below along with your hard-earned $3.00 and you will receive the next four Issues! Please support the Virginia Region. Subscribe now.

r----------------------------------------,

Like oh-my-Gawd! I want to get the REGION RECORD delivered to my home fer-sure dude. I

am sending you a HOLE lot of money.

$3.00 for 1 year $6.00 for 2 years $9.00 for 3 years

Name NSS Number

Street

City State

Grotto that I claim (primary) or that will claim me, if any •.

Make your checks Payable to V AR and send it to:

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