NEW CITY, NY – A guided group hike will take place at Kakiat Park in Montebello at 9 AM this Sunday, August 11, 2019. This two-and-a-half hour strenuous hike will feature the beauty of one of the county’s most popular parks!
The hike will be Led by trained guides, you will have the ability to hike up the rugged Mountain Trail ascending to scenic viewpoints. Immerse yourself in the beauty and versatility of a county park that offers stunning views, a variety of hiking trails (that includes a connector to Harriman State Park), the Mahwah River, a lovely picnic area, open fields and is rich with history.
Walkers should meet in the parking area of Kakiat Park, by the footbridge. Hiking boots are highly recommended for traction and ankle support. Wear clothing suitable for the weather and bring plenty of water and snacks. Sunscreen and bug spray are also suggested.
Pre-registration for walks is suggested, but not required. Contact us at 845-364-2932 or at [email protected] to register or for more information.
Kakiat Park is located 584 Haverstraw Road (also known as Route 202) in Montebello, across from Viola Elementary School. GPS Viola Elementary School for directions (Park is across the street) or follow this link to the park: https://goo.gl/maps/MtDcwbkkSwNpUdjy6.
Important general information about the guided walks :
Hiking boots are recommended, or else closed-toe shoes with sturdy soles. Wear light-colored clothing and dress for the weather (bring a jacket, hat, and rain gear as needed). Bring snacks and plenty of water, bug spray, sunscreen, binoculars, and a walking stick if you would like.
Meet in the parking lot, unless otherwise specified. All walks are rain or shine.
Unless otherwise specified, these walks are not stroller-friendly and dogs are not allowed.
As with any physical activity program, it is recommended you speak to your physician before starting.
All guided walks are coordinated and supported in partnership with the Rockland County Division of Environmental Resources, the Rockland County Youth Bureau’s Conservation and Service Corps program, and the Rockland County Department of Health.
For more information or directions, please call 845-364-2932 or e-mail [email protected].
In 1921, an unknown World War I American soldier was buried in Arlington National Cemetery. This site, on a hillside overlooking the Potomac River and the city of Washington, D.C., became the focal point of reverence for America’s veterans. Similar ceremonies occurred earlier in England and France, where an unknown soldier was buried in each nation’s highest place of honor (in England, Westminster Abbey; in France, the Arc de Triomphe). These memorial gestures all took place on November 11, giving universal recognition to the celebrated ending of World War I fighting at 11 a.m., November 11, 1918 (the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month). The day became known as “Armistice Day.” Armistice Day officially received its name in America in 1926 through a Congressional resolution. It became a national holiday 12 years later by similar Congressional action. If the idealistic hope had been realized that World War I was “the War to end all wars,” November 11 might still be called Armistice Day. But only a few years after the holiday was proclaimed, war broke out in Europe. Sixteen and one-half million Americans took part. Four hundred seven thousand of them died in service, more than 292,000 in battle. Armistice Day Changed To Honor All Veterans The first celebration using the term Veterans Day occurred in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1947. Raymond Weeks, a World War II veteran, organized “National Veterans Day,” which included a parade and other festivities, to honor all veterans. The event was held on November 11.
Halloween originated from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which was a celebration of changing seasons from summer to winter. The Celts believed that on the night of October 31, the boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead became blurred, and the spirits of the dead would return to earth. To ward off evil spirits, the Celts would: light bonfires, wear costumes, and tell fortunes.
Over time, the traditions of Samhain blended with other cultures and religions:
Christian influence
In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as All Saints’ Day, a day to honor Christian saints and martyrs. All Saints’ Day later became known as All Hallows’ Day, and the night before, October 31, became known as All Hallows’ Eve, and eventually Halloween.
Irish folklore
The Irish and Scottish brought their folklore about a trickster named Jack to America, where they found pumpkins, which were easier to carve than turnips. The story of Jack-o’-lantern is said to have inspired the Irish to carve faces into pumpkins to ward off evil spirits.