Palomar Mountain News

Dateline: Palomar Mountain, CA June 7, 2010

Knights Conquer Palomar Mountain

The mightily slopes of Palomar Mountain were scaled and conquered last Saturday by members of the Smiley Elementary School Knights from Redlands California. Youngsters from Mr. Gary Peplow’s 4th grade class and their families experienced the mountain at its best during their B.O.X. (Bailey’s Outdoor Experience) campout at Bailey’s Palomar Resort.

Scott Kardel led the Knight’s charge through the 200 inch dome, where all were treated to an inside tour of the famous 200 inch Hale Telescope. The Knights and their families were amazed and delighted with their introduction to the Caltech facility, and vowed to keep their lights low when they went back to the city.

The youngsters will now help spread the news about light pollution and the many benefits of DARK NIGHTIME SKIES! Following their return to the campground, they marched off on the Iron Dude Hike lead by outdoorsman Matt Bailey. The students learned about native plants, mountain lore and much more. Later that evening the group gathered for the requisite Campfire Program. This is always a big hit especially when Rhonda Black (former outdoor education teacher) pulled out her guitar.

 The group gathered around “Big Dan” – the old totem pole – for a lively sing-along! The evening program was topped off with fresh baked cookies around the campfire, followed by a magic show and stories under the starry night sky! The Smiley Knights were a wonderful group of bright and engaging children and parents, and what better way to kick off the summer season at Baileys!

Many thanks to Mr. Gary Peplow and the folks from Smiley School for being our very special guests. Sharing our mountain top environment always offers a truly special opportunity for our quests, family and friends! We hope to make the Smiley spring campout an annual event for the Knights of Redlands.

And a special thanks to all who participated in making the youngster’s wonderful weekend possible;

Scott Kardel and the folks at Palomar Observatory for the amazing telescope tour;

Rhonda Black, for the awesome campfire music program;

Vandy & Matt Bailey, for the hiking and assistance;

Noah Harris, the able magician’s assistant;

Terri & Brad Bailey, for the historic tour, magic show and campfire stories;

Tim Rubio, Simley school contact and participating parent; and the Smiley Knights of Redlands, for their energy, enthusiasm and support!