The Gansett Gazette

August-September
2013

Narragansett Chapter AMC
Leadership Roster

Chapter Chair-Debbie Mitchell
Chapter Vice-Chair-Bob Tessitore
Secretary-Matt Putnam
Treasurer-Tom Eagan
Membership Chair-Robin Kuznitz
Activities Chair-Chris Shafer
Communications Chair-Mike Krabach
Conservation Chair-Linda Pease
Leadership Chair-Ed Poyer
Trails Chair-Dav Cranmer
Backpacking & Northern Hikes Subchair-Ed Poyer
Biking Subchair-Marcie Madsen
Local Hikes Co-Subchairs-Mary Ann Topp
and Christine Galvin

Technical Climbing Co-Subchairs- Peter Barlow
and Brian Phillips

Flatwater Paddling Subchair-Linda Pease
Sea Kayaking Subchair-Michael Krabach
Skiing Subchair-Sue Rollins
Young Members Subchair-Scott Disnard
Family Outings Subchair-Debbie Mitchell
Webmaster/Photographer-Mike Krabach
Publicist-Shannon Kelley
Archivist-Volunteer needed.

Our Newsletter Gazette in the Future.

The Chapter Board has a question for you: Do you need a paper copy of the Gazette? Producing a paper copy of the Gazette has some drawbacks. For one, it is the Chapter’s single largest annual expense. Fortunately our finances are strong and we can continue to provide it as long as members need it. However, those funds could also expand our other offerings. A second drawback is timeliness. With such a wide variety of events and outings, times and dates change. The online Gazette remains up to date but the paper copy lags so, by design, it misses recently added events and inevitably contains inaccuracies in some of the others.

Some Chapters have eliminated paper delivery of newsletters and the Narragansett Chapter is also considering that option. That said, we exist for our members and do not seek to make decisions that impact you without your input. If the membership sees significant value in the paper newsletter we will continue to produce it.

We need to hear from you. Please investigate the options and let us know how you feel. Currently the website has multiple methods of finding trips and events. Explore the website and let us know your favorite search method. Maybe the mailed Gazette is your favorite. You can send us your opinions and suggestions by clicking the “time for feedack” item in the “Featured Events” window, or use the link “Your Opinions, please.” under the “Notices & Reminders” section on the front page of our website. For anyone without Internet access, you are welcome to call the webmaster at 401-333-5350. Without your opinions, you will have no representation in the future direction of the newsletter.

Thank you
The Narragansett Chapter Board

Communications Task Force

The Chapter Board has formed a temporary Communications Task Force to define the Chapter’s current and future communication needs and develop a plan to address them. We are looking for 5-6 additional volunteers for the committee. Responsibilities may include: interviewing Chapter or Club level experts about available resources, documenting the findings, working with others to assess those resources, and developing summaries for the Board. No technical skills are required but an understanding of social media sites like facebook and meetup is helpful. The committee is expected to meet no more than once a month for approximately 2-3 hours and the work should be complete within 6-8 months. This is a great way to meet more members, gain exposure to the Boston HQ, and ensure your chapter has a healthy and vibrant future. Please contact Matt Putnam, Chapter Secretary, or 401-862-2861 to join or for additional details.

AMC Member Center

Register yourself at the AMC Member Center. There are many advantages that can make membership in the AMC better. You can change your Gazette preference, electonic notification or delivered by mail. You can subscribe to many AMC club wide notices, including the AMC Outdoors Online Edition, the Outdoor Connection, the Conservation Action Network, the Maine Woods Initiative and the Adventure Travel Newsletter. You can subscribe to Activity Digests and get weekly or monthly notifications of your favorite activities. With your email address registered, you will also receive any special emails that our chapter might send out. (No more than 6 a year.)

Missing the Cardigan Fall Weekend?

This year our chapter will not hold a Cardigan Fall Weekend. We plan on hosting the event on a bi-annual basis. So for those who were hoping for a Cardigan "Fall Harvest" weekend, please consider attending the "AMC Fall Gathering". The activities will be similar to our Cardigan Weekend and we are sure that you will enjoy it just as much.


AMC Fall gathering 2013
October 18-20

This year's AMC Fall Gathering, hosted by the Delaware Valley Chapter, will be held on the weekend of October 18-20 at Camp Speers-Eljabar YMCA in Dingmans Ferry in northeastern Pennsylvania, right at the edge of the spectacular Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The Fall Gathering is a club-wide event of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking and paddling, along with social hours, dinners, a Saturday night barn dance and campfires. There will be members from all twelve AMC chapters in attendance.

The registration for the 2013 Fall Gathering, hosted by the Delaware Valley Chapter, is now open! Please register soon if you plan to attend. It is bound to be a fun and productive weekend. Registration is not unlimited (there is a maximum number of people that the dining hall can hold), so please register sooner rather than later if you are going to come. You can register at www.amcfall.org or see the “Featured Events” window titled “AMC Fall Gathering 2013” on the front page of our website.

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White Mountain Trails

AMC crews will soon be out clearing and repairing trails! But increased use and declining budgets are cutting into our ability to maintain favorite White Mountain trails and fix damage from recent years’ storms. Your support of the trails fund or as a volunteer is even more important this year! The Narragansett Chapter will be matching up to $500 of donations made by members to the trails fund. Please contact us if you would like to take advantage of this opportunity to double your contribution to trails, or to take part in a volunteer project.

Camp Winaukee Labor Day Weekend
Aug 31-Sept 2

This year for the first time we have a 3 day Weekend for hiking, biking and paddling on Lake Winnipesaukee at Camp Winaukee. Cost includes lodging and 9 meals. Deposit $70. $190 full price. Comfortable, lakeside cabins with plumbing & pvt. rooms for couples. Relax & enjoy last rays of summer on quiet north/west section of the lake. Intermediate & easier activities each day. Choice of regular or vegie meals include 3 breakfasts, 3 bag lunches, and 3 dinners. Happy hours and evening programs included. Deposit $70. $190 full price. Call Linda Pease to register 401-351 2234. After registering, write check to AMC Narragansett Chapter, mail to Linda Pease 130 Sunbury St. Providence, RI 02908. Include your email address and phone number. Alternate: email leaders Linda at linda.pease@cox.net or Jack Schempp at jschempp1@gmail.com Check out last years event.

Narragansett Chapter Annual Meeting
Save November 9th

Our Annual meeting will be held on Saturday November 9th at the Save the Bay facility, and is a nice opportunity to meet other members while enjoying great food and presentations. The Chapter's major awards, as described below, are presented as this time.

1. The Appie of the Year award is presented annually to that person who, in an outstanding manner, exemplifies the mission of the Appalachian Mountain Club. The recipient of this award receives an individual engraved plaque as a permanent memento and is also presented with a plaque with their name engraved, along with the names of the previous Appies. This plaque is retained for one year before it is passed on to the next Appie of the Year. The recipient of this award is chosen by the Narragansett Chapter membership and is confirmed by the Chapter Executive Board.

2. The John Clark Service Award is the Chapter's second highest honor. This award is given to the "unsung hero" of our chapter - someone who quietly goes about their business of contributing to the chapter.

3. Over the years, some members have given their time and talent to the AMC, and to our Chapter, for such a long time that other yearly awards do not express the appreciation the Chapter has for these members. To show our appreciation, the Chapter has inaugurated our Golden Appie Award.

This award is not a yearly award but a lifetime achievement award for service to the Narragansett Chapter. Please contact us if you have nominations for any of these awards. Debbie Mitchell (401)743-4192 dmitchell@thebravergroup.com or Bob Tessitore at bobtess@gmail.com

ACTIVITIES

Sat., Aug. 3. Race Brook Falls, Mt Race and Sages Ravine. Hike the CT/MA Appalachian Trail through the deep and dark Sages Ravine. Then hike the cliff side up to the summit of Mt. Race with it's 360 degree views of the southern Taconic Range. Then we'll hike down to the steep but scenic Race Brook Falls Trail and visit it's 5 sets of cascades (the highest about 60 feet). Waterfalls, views, cliffs, this hike has it all. Early carpool from Northern RI. Late Return. Eat out after hike. L John Stevens, L Christopher Shafer (Christopher.Shafer@dem.ri.gov), CL Maria Earley , reg/w John Stevens (401-487-2629 7-9pm weeknights, jstevens184@gmail.com)

Sat., Aug. 3. E Greenwhich/ Slocum bike ride. 35 mile moderate speed ride averaging 13 mph.,through rolling and flat country side. Lunch stop in Slocum. Helmets req'd. 9:30am start. Please don't use e-mail after 2:00pm on Thursday before the ride. L Nancy Baker (401-737-3052 after 7pm, nancy_baker@brown.edu)

Sat., Aug. 3. Annual Black Tie Paddle. On Narrow River. Starting from Grovenor Camp, Saunderstown. Join us w/time to spend on the beach and dining in style (Bring plastic stemware). Call for rentals. Two paddle options: #1 shorter easier or #2 longer faster. L Linda Pease (401-351-2234, linda.pease@cox.net), L Bill Rush , CL Ann Reddy (annreddy6@live.com)

Sat., Aug. 3-4. Rock Climbing - Rumney. Climbers comfortable on 5.8 routes or better, camp at local campground. Dinner at an après climb restaurant or cost share BBQ. L Chris Tate (401-596-7483, chrisri@riconnect.com)

Mon., Aug. 5. Mystic River Paddle. (new) Come enjoy an evening kayak trip on the Mystic River! We will paddle down from the Rt 95 ramp and head down to the drawbridge (further if time permits). We will listen to music from Mystic River Park and check out the Whaling ship Charles Morgan. L Corey Mott, reg/w Corey Mott (401-932-4439, cwmott08@gmail.com)

Tue., Aug. 6. Kayak Rescue Practice. At URI Bay Campus. 5:30pm start, but late arrival OK. Wet exits and rescues to be practiced. Come and watch or participate. Short paddle after possible. Contact Mike for questions. L Michael Krabach (401-333-5350, mkrabach@cox.net), CL Ray Bucacci (401-822-1407, goray7ray@gmail.com)

Tue., Aug. 6. Narragansett shore evening ride. Leave at 6 pm sharp from Narragansett beach lot. 18 mile ride... Comfortable pace. Ride along shore to Great Island and back. Helmets req'd. L Sidney Wax (401-849-2595, sid_w@yahoo.com)

Fri., Aug. 9-11. Huntington Ravine Headwall hike. Hike to the summit of Mount Washington by what the White Mountain Guide calls "the most difficult regular hiking trail in the White Mountains". Challenging hike for those comfortable on steep, ledgy areas and not queasy in exposed locations. Sunday, leader's choice. Approximate cost $160.00, includes 2 nights lodging at Pinkham, 1 dinner, 2 breakfasts. Must register by July 25. L Charles Killam (Charlie.Killam@gmail.com), CL Scott Sprague, reg/w Scott Sprague (dadders1954@hotmail.com)

Sat., Aug. 10. Save the Bay Paddle. From Passeonquis Cove.to Pawtuxet Cove, then to lunch spot on Save the Bay headquarter's back deck for glorious views of upper bay. 8 mi round trip. Sea kayaks preferred. Smaller kayaks OK if good weather. Lunch, drinks, PFD. L Corey Mott (401-932-4439, cwmott08@gmail.com), L Linda Pease (401-351-2234, linda.pease@cox.net)

Sun., Aug. 11. Ninigret Pond Kayaking. (new) Easy kayaking in Ninigret Pond with beach time on the ocean. Flat water conditions prevail. L Steve Harrington, L Barbara Flagg (baykayker51@verizon.net), reg/w Steve Harrington (sjhep1@hotmail.com)

Sat., Aug. 10-12. Camp Dodge Trails/Hiking Weekend. On Sat. and Sun.- White Mtns. trail improvement project and on Mon.- intermediate hike. No prior trail project experience required and all trail tools provided. Lodging/camping options and most meals available at Camp Dodge. Register with Leader by Aug. 2. L Christopher Shafer (401-789-8331 7PM - 9PM, Christopher.Shafer@dem.ri.gov)

Tue., Aug. 13. Kayak Rescue Practice. At URI Bay Campus. 5:30pm start, but late arrival OK. Wet exits and rescues to be practiced. Come and watch or participate. Short paddle after possible. Contact Mike for questions. L Michael Krabach (401-333-5350, mkrabach@cox.net), CL Ray Bucacci (401-822-1407, goray7ray@gmail.com)

Tue., Aug. 13. Providence "Wild Forest Tour". RI Land Trust Days, 5:30- 7, Rain date August 15, Neutaconkanut Hill is not only the highest point in Providence, it is home to the last wild forest in the city, an oasis for animals and visitors alike. Enjoy a guided walk and learn about the trees found on the hill, which range from tall oaks to recently planted pines. Learn about protection efforts to save this forest. Sturdy walking shoes and insect repellent recommended. The 1.5 mile hike starts at the base of the Hill, Plainfield Street. Led by NHC volunteers Helen Tjader and Eric Poulin. Registration is not required. Sponsored by the Providence Parks Department and the Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy. This is a Non-AMC event. L Debbie Mitchell (401-743-4192, dmitchell@thebravergroup.com)

Wed., Aug. 14. Hike/Social - Island Park , Portsmouth. 2 1/2-3 mile hike and we go to dinner. Get off the couch and join us, on a hike along the Portsmouth waterfront. Meet at seawall at bottom of Boyd's Lane, at Park Ave. 6:00. Rain or shine! Contact CL for addl info. L Sidney Wax (401-849-2595, sid_w@yahoo.com), CL Suzanne Lacombe (508-678-4304, suz.m.lacombe@gmail.com)

Thur., Aug. 15. East Bay Bike Path Ride. 20 mi ride on the bike path, E Prov to Barrington. All welcome. Flat except a short grade near end. Helmet and light required. Leave 6:00 pm from lot at start of path, Veterans Parkway. L Sidney Wax (401-849-2595, sid_w@yahoo.com)

Fri., Aug. 16-18. Backpacking the Northern Presidential Ridge. We will hike from Pinkham out to Mt Madison, over Mt Adams, and then onto a cabin. On Sunday we will ascend Jefferson and Washington before returning to our cars. 2 mph pace, 1nt at Pinkham, and 1nt at and RMC Cabin. ~16 miles and 8500ft+ elev gain. L Scott Disnard, CL Scott Sprague , CL Tim Bannin , reg/w Scott Disnard (sdizzy@gmail.com)

Sat., Aug. 17. Rehoboth- Swansea Bike Ride. 30 mile moderate paced ride along the Taunton River and nearby countryside. Helmets required. 9:30 am start. L Carol Richards (401-434-8448, carol_164@cox.net), CL Bill Rush

Sat., Aug. 17. Fresh Air Walk At Blackstone Park in Providence. Explore Explore the primary trails and spy on the scull training by Narraganset Boat Club on the Seekonk River from trails high above. Enjoy trails our trails workers have preserved from erosion. Then walk along Gulf Avenue and return by secret trails. You can leave the walk or continue on Blackstone Blvd afterward (maybe for ice cream). L Linda Pease (401-351-2234, linda.pease@cox.net)

Sun., Aug. 18. Kayak to Beavertail Pt. Kayak from URI Bay Campus to Beavertail Pt. Open water kayaking subject to weather conditions. Sea Kayaking rules apply, PFD and safety gear. Distance about 10 miles. Bring lunch, water and standard safety gear. L Raymond Bucacci (401-822-1407, goray7ray@gmail.com), CL Michael Krabach (401-333-5350, mkrabach@cox.net)

Sun., Aug. 18. Full Moon Paddle. (new) Experienced paddlers only. 12' boats or longer. Bow and stern lights (flashlights in plastic bags are fine) and PFD's required. Water, snacks and bug spray strongly recommended. Rain or heavy cloud cover cancels. Be prepared to paddle in the dark. Launch time TBD - contact leaders . L N Gregg O'Brien (401-473-8132, goh243@aol.com), CL Bill Luther (508-761-7961, Prijon@juno.com), CL Steve Harrington (401-434-3409, Sjhep1@hotmail.com)

Tue., Aug. 20. Neutaconkanut Park History Walk. RI Land Trust days, 5:30- 7, rain date August 21 Neutaconkanut Hill is a park today due to the generosity of Abby King, the last of her family line. Come learn about this land's history as a park for the people and wildlife. Discover changes in the park over the years as well as the urgent mission to protect the entire Hill for future generations. Sturdy walking shoes and insect repellent are recommended. The 1.5 moderate walk leaves from the base of the hill, Plainfield Street. Led by NHC volunteers Helen Tjader and Eric Poulin. Registration is not required. Sponsored by the Providence Parks Department and the Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy. This is a Non-AMC event. L Debbie Mitchell (401-743-4192, dmitchell@thebravergroup.com)

Wed., Aug. 21. Pasta Challenge/Rehoboth Bike Ride. Scenic rural biking. Two rides start/end at Hillside Country Club. One easy, one intermediate pace. All the pasta you can eat at the Club afterward. 6pm start. Helmets req'd. L Bill Rush. L Linda Pease (401-351-2234, linda.pease@cox.net)

Fri., Aug. 23-25. Liberty Flume Hike. Bag two peaks while enjoying great views of slides, ledges, and peaks in the Franconia range. The elevation is approximately 4,459 feet with 360 degree views. For experienced hikers only. Cost $120.00 for 2 nights lodging, 2 breakfasts and 1 dinner. Registration and deposit required by 8/3/13. L Sue Warthman, CL Steve Harrison (401-270-3363 6-9pm), reg/w Susan Warthman (401-270-3363 6-9pm, swarthman@cox.net)

Sat., Aug. 24. Salt Pond Paddle. Paddling in Great Salt Pond. Sea kayaks and larger recreational kayaks welcome. Distance about 7 miles. Bring lunch, water, and clothing as weather dictates. L William Hahn (bhahn02835@yahoo.com), CL Linda Pease (401-351-2234, linda.pease@cox.net)

Wed., Aug. 28. Hike and Social, Warwick City Park. 2-3 mile hike and we go to dinner. A walk in the park. Get off the couch and join us 6 p.m. Warwick City Park on Asylum Rd, off Buttonwoods. Contact CL for info. L Sidney Wax (401-849-2595, sid_w@yahoo.com), CL Ginny Calabrese (401-782-6518)

Fri., Aug. 30-Sep. 2. Multi Activity Camp Winaukee Labor DAY 3 Day Weekend. Hike, Bike and paddle Lake Winnipesaukee, intermediate & easier activities, 9 meals, $190. Explore Lake Winnipesaukee. Hike the Sandwich Range, huge views, bike scenic roads, comfortable, lakeside cabins w/plumbing & pvt. rooms for Couples. Choice of regular or vegie meals, relax & enjoy last rays of summer on quiet north/west section of the lake. Intermediate & easier activities each day. Happy Hr, 3 breakfasts, 3 bag lunches, 3 dinners, evening program. Deposit $70. $190 full price. Registration is closed. Payment required by Wed. Aug. 28th. Call Linda Pease to register,351 2234, write check to AMC Narragansett Chapter, mail to Linda Pease 130 Sunbury St. Providence, RI 02908 include your email address and phone # Alternate: email Jack Schempp jschempp1@gmail.com. L Linda Pease (401-351-2234, linda.pease@cox.net), L Jack Schempp (jschempp1@gmail.com)

Sat., Aug. 31. Warwick to Wickford Bike Ride. 30-35 mi. for intermediate riders, average speed of 13 mph. This is rolling but not too difficult, a nice ride w/a stop in the village of Wickford. Bring water and lunch or snacks, but will be able to get something in town. 9:30 SHARP start. Meet at the intersection of Post Rd (Rt 1A) and Cowesett Rd in Warwick. Parking lot is next door to Zoots Cleaners. Helmets required. Please don't e-mail after 2:00pm on Thursday before the ride. L Nancy Baker (401-737-3052 after 7:00 pm, nancy_baker@brown.edu)

Wed., Sep. 4. Hike and Social - Ryan Park, North Kingstown. 2 1/2-3 mile hike, and then we go out to eat. Get off the couch and join us. Meet at the lot by the main entrance, Oak Hill Road). Leave at 6:00. L Richard Sullivan (401-338-2880, grampydick2001@yahoo.com)

Fri., Sep. 6-8. Burlingame Trails/Recreational Weekend. 9 AM trail training event led by AMC staff person and various trail projects, swimming option after trail work, plus a group dinner in the evening at campsite. Sunday- eight mile Gormley trail hike. Free Friday and Saturday camping for trail volunteers. Non-campers arrive Saturday at 8:30 AM at Burlingame camping area main parking lot (for trail training and/or trail project). All trail maintainers (new and experienced) are welcome. Bring gloves, sturdy footwear, water, and lunch. All tools provided. Register with leader by 9/4 for trails training event/project and/or hike, camping, and dinner potluck item. L Christopher Shafer (401-789-8331 7 PM to 9 PM, Christopher.Shafer@dem.ri.gov)

Fri., Sep. 6-8. 100 Highest Weekend. (revised date) Join us bagging a couple of NE 100 Highest. Bushwhack to Peak above the Nubble on Saturday and another more mellow 100 Highest on Sunday. Must be in good physical condition, be comfortable following me off-trail, and have a good sense of humor. Approximate cost $120.00, includes 2 nights lodging, 2 breakfasts, 1 dinner. L Charles Killam (Charlie.Killam@gmail.com), CL Scott Disnard, reg/w Scott Disnard (sdizzy@gmail.com)

Sat., Sep. 7. Bold Point to Dragon Festival, Pawtucket. Kayaking from Bold Pt. into Seekonk River to Pawtucket to watch Dragon boat races and festival. Intermediate paddle for sea kayaks. Bring lunch and water, or indulge at the Festival. Paddle about 10 miles. L Gary Whitney (401-885-1506, garywhitney3@cox.net), reg/w Gary Whitney

Sat., Sep. 7-8. Rock Climbing - Cannon. Climbers comfortable on 5.8 routes or better, camping is at a private campground we have arranged. Dinner is catered. L David Curry (dmcurry13@yahoo.com)

Sat., Sep. 7. Tri-State Tour Bike Ride. (canceled) 3 states in one ride! Start in Pascoag, RI into NE corner of CT, into MA and back to RI. 33 mile intermediate paced ride. Bring water and snacks, lunch. Helmets reqd. 9:30am sharp start! L Scott Disnard (sdizzy@gmail.com)

Wed., Sep. 11. Hike and Social, Narragansett. Meet at the courtyard by the Narragansett Towers by the Coast Guard House. 2-3 mile hike and we go to dinner. Get off the couch and join us. L Susan Boland (401-556-3926, sboland2@cox.net)

Fri., Sep. 13-15. The Baldfaces. Join us for one of the finest ridge traverses of the White Mountains, with nearly 4 miles of open ledge walking in a less-traveled area. Nearly continuous views, including a breathtaking view of Mt. Washington looming above the Carter Range. Challenging, all day hike for well-conditioned hikers - 9.7 mi, 3600 ft elevation gain via Baldface Circle Trail to South Baldface and across North Baldface. Sun., leaders' choice. Approximate cost $95, includes 2 nights lodging, 2 breakfasts and 1 dinner. L Bernardo Aumond, CL Elise Hedglen (ehedglen@yahoo.com), reg/w Bernardo Aumand (bdaumond@yahoo.com)

Fri., Sep. 13-15. YM Sponsored Flags on the 48 Hiking Weekend. Join us for a weekend of car camping and hiking as part of the Flags on the 48 memorial hike. We will fly the flag high from 12-2 and hopefully see the flag raised on many other peaks! Fee $10 for 2 nights car camping at Osceloa Vista Campground. L Scott Disnard, CL Tammy Daugherty , reg/w Scott Disnard (sdizzy@gmail.com)

Sun., Sep. 15. Boston Harbor - Advanced Sea Kayak Trip. (rescheduled) Alternate launch for shorter trip. Paddle to Spectacle Island for lunch. Then on to Georges Island where we visit Fort Warren. This is for experienced sea kayakers. It is sure to include busy channel crossings and bumpy confused water. Bring a lunch, and the usual equipment, obviously including a PFD. L Michael Krabach, CL Ray Bucacci (401-822-1407, goray7ray@gmail.com), reg/w Mike Krabach (401-333-5350, mkrabach@cox.net)

Sat., Sep. 14. Paddling with milfoil on scenic Stump Pond in Smithfield. A decade ago Stump Pond in Smithfield was clear Now invasive milfoil takes up more and more of this beautiful huge pond. How about your lake or pond? So easy to spread by mistake you need a permit to remove it. Google milfoil in Rhode Island. L Linda Pease (401-351-2234, linda.pease@cox.net, CL Martha Cruciani (martha.cruciani@me.com)

Tue., Sep. 17. Tiverton Trifecta Hike. (new) First hike in Ft. Barton Woods & Revolutionary Redoubt, then on to Emilie Ruecker Wildlife Refuge and finish in Weetamoo Woods & Pardon Gray Preserve. A total of 9.6 miles. All locations minutes apart. Bring water, snacks and lunch for a long satisfying day. Not necessary to do all 3. EARLY start. 9am sharp. L Marcie Madsen (401-364-6538, marciem18@verizon.net) L Margie Parsons (401-743-3405, mpkayak@cox.net)

Wed., Sep. 18. Roger Williams Park, Providence. 2 1//2-3 mi hike and we go to dinner. Get off the couch and join us. Hike the paths of Roger Williams Park. A favorite, but we haven't done it for some time. Meet inside the park at the entrance on Elwood Avenue near the Casino. Leave 6:00. L Janet Harris (401-272-6772, Janet.harris90@gmail.com)

Fri., Sep. 20-22. Paddling/Camping on Moon Island - Squam Lake, NH. Annual weekend of kayaking and camping on Moon Island, enjoying the last weekend of summer on this pristine lake surrounded by the foothills of Sandwich, NH. Participants should be experienced and have proper equipment for camping/kayaking. Sea kayak is required and participant must be able to carry all of their camping equipment to island. Limited participation. Cost is $35. L Bill Rush (whr0316@msn.com), reg/w Bill Rush

Sat., Sep. 21. Block Island Conservation Hike and Easy Rider Bike Ride. Enjoy beautiful scenery by bike and the trails of Rodman's Hollow by foot (we'll lock bikes). Bring lunch, drinks, snacks, and money for ice cream. Early ferry departure. Helmet required. L Dennis McCarthy (401-455-0866, dmccarthy12@cox.net)

Wed., Sep. 25. Hike and Social - Newport - Ballard Park. (date correction) 2 1/2-3 mile walk and we'll go out to eat. Get off the couch and join us. Wooded trails and shore birds in Newport! 6 pm, Rogers High School, Wickham Rd. L Sidney Wax (401-849-2595, sid_w@yahoo.com)

Wed., Sep. 25. Yawgoog Scout Reservation Hike. (new) 6-8 mile hike in Yawgoog Scout reservation in Hopkinton. Great trails, lots of ups and downs, variable terrain, unique features. Bring water, snacks, lunch, sturdy hiking shoes. 9:30 start. L Marcie Madsen (401-364-6538, marciem18@verizon.net) L Margie Parsons (401-743-3405, mpkayak@cox.net)

Sat., Sep. 28. National Public Lands Day Trails Event. (new) Join AMC and REI volunteers for a trails improvement event in Arcadia Management area. Improvements will include removing tree(s) blocking a nearby stream, and erosion control activities/brushing on one or more trails. Meet 9 AM. Bring water, lunch, work gloves (or gloves will be loaned if needed), and wear sturdy hiking boots or equivalent. All tools provided by AMC. No prior experience required. Meeting location and directions will be provided, upon registering with leader. L Christopher Shafer (401-789-8331 7 PM - 9PM, Christopher.Shafer@dem.ri.gov)

Sun., Sep. 29. Apple Picking. (new) Join us on our first Apple picking social. 20 Varieties of Apples, along with other things to pick. Also, might be making Apple pies if a suitable place is located. The address is 56 Elmdale Road North Scituate, RI 02857. We will meet around 3Pm. Email for more details. L Chris Turgeon (turgeon77@ymail.com)

ADVANCE NOTICES

Fri., Oct. 4-6. Vermont 4,000'ers. Join us for a weekend of challenging day hikes in scenic Vermont. Saturday we'll hike to summits of Mts. Ellen and Abraham, both 4000'ers. Sunday, probably Camel's Hump. Approximate cost $60.00, includes 2 nights lodging, 2 breakfasts, 1 dinner. L Charles Killam (Charlie.Killam@gmail.com), CL Elise Hedglen, reg/w Elise Hedglen (ehedglen@yahoo.com)

Sat., Oct. 5. Barn Island to Napatree Pt. paddle. Kayaking from Barn Island, Stonington, CT to Napatree Point. Intermediate paddle about 9 miles. Bring lunch, water. Stop in Westerly for ice cream or snacks. L Michael Krabach (401-333-5350, mkrabach@cox.net), CL Bill Hahn , reg/w Michael Krabach

Sat., Oct. 5. Borderland State Park Hike, Easton, MA. (canceled) Classic fall hike on conservation land. 5 - 6 miles of woods, ponds, streams and Ames estate. "Easy Hikers" type. hiking boots req'd, bring water, snacks and lunch. L Linda Pease (401-351-2234, linda.pease@cox.net), CL Rich & Christine Ayres (508-308-4568 after 5 pm no later than Oct. 4, sunbird20@comcast.net)

Sat., Oct. 12-13. Rock Climbing - Gunks. Climbers capable of 5.6 routes or better. Trip size may be limited due to leader to second ratio. L Sarah Rich (saeandpetzl@gmail.com)

Fri., Oct. 18-20 AMC Fall Gathering 2013. (registration closed) This year's AMC Fall Gathering, hosted by the Delaware Valley Chapter, will be held at Camp Speers-Eljabar YMCA in Dingmans Ferry in northeastern Pennsylvania, right at the edge of the spectacular Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The Fall Gathering is a club-wide event of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking and paddling, along with social hours, dinners, a Saturday night barn dance and campfires. There will be members from all twelve AMC chapters in attendance. Read more...