The Gansett Gazette
December-January
2010-2011
Communications Chair: The applicants should have good verbal and written communication skills both verbally and in print. Knowledge of public relations, website management, and computer skills will be helpful but not required. A sense of humor and a dose of pragmatism might be helpful. The position involves working with the Communication committee to coordinate all Chapter communication operations. The position assists the Executive Board on issues of public awareness and public relations. He/She shall promote the AMC and Narragansett Chapter membership and activities to members and to the general public through timely and interesting trip descriptions, special notices, editorials, and articles by and in the Chapter newsletter, website, and other public venues. He/She will oversee the communications equipment and Gazette publication budget. The position works closely with the webmaster. If you are interested, or need more information, contact Mark Dennen, the current Communications Chair (mdennen@cox.net).
Communications Editor: This position is in transition from the previous Gazette Editor to a more general chapter editor. The editor would assist in getting articles for the Gazette and website. The applicant should have good writing and communication skills. Web and computer skills would also be desirable. If you are interested, or need more information, contact the webmaster (mkrabach@cox.net) or Mark Dennen.(mdennen@cox.net).
Leadership Development Chair: The position will be responsible for organizing a committee to assist the Chair for planning and implementing a continuous leadership development program within the Chapter. Responsibilities include planning the scope and budget for the Chapter's Leadership Development program, and providing for training programs that are desirable for the Chapter. If you are interested, or need more information, contact Charlie Killam, Leadership Development Chair (charlie.killam@gmail.com).
Narragansett Chapter Conservation Co-Chair Jack Schempp did an outstanding job organizing the Fall Harvest Festival weekend, October 22-24, at AMC’s Cardigan Lodge, located in Alexandria, NH. Over 30 new and current members thoroughly enjoyed the trip which was filled with fun and adventure. 
The weekend began with an encouraging talk by special guest Roger Scholl, the Director of Volunteer Relations for the AMC. Events included an informative lecture on how to stay warm in the winter given by hikes leader Tom Grasso; a pumpkin carving contest; walks, paddling and hikes led by leaders Denise Poyer, Tom Grasso, Chris Shafer, Linda Pease and Mike Krabach. 
One of the highlights of the weekend was the Saturday evening contra dance, which is a traditional American dance derived from English country dancing. The contra dance band was fun and lively and everyone who participated had a great time. The accommodations at Cardigan Lodge were very comfortable and the crew was welcoming and upbeat. The food was also delicious and plentiful. 
Membership Chair Robin Kuznitz was excited to meet and get to know our newest chapter members. The weekend was a wonderful success and we’re confident that it was an experience that everyone will remember in the most positive way. (by Robin Kuznitz) More photos in the Photo Album.
Thu., Dec. 2. Winter Gear Seminar. Evening session: learn and discuss clothing and gear to keep you warm and safe on winter hiking outings. Clothing, footwear, snowshoes, crampons, and miscellaneous equipment demonstrated and discussed. Co-hosted with REI Cranston. Register with L's or at link below. L Charlie Killam (508-252-4349, Charlie.Killam@gmail.com), L Steve Harrison. Registration limited, more info for Winter gear seminar at REI.
Sun., Dec. 5. Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, Seekonk, MA. 
10:00am start. Seekonk Caratunk Bird Sanctuary was purchased by the State of Rhode Island when Massachusetts would not. It's characterized by scenic streams and ponds within its 196 areas. In the spring, blue birds abound in the many bird houses. After 2-3 mile hike, a popular place for something hot is nearby. L Herrick Spencer (401-723-1974, spencer295@cox.net), CL Jill Keating (401-862-6159, annyjillian@cox.net)
Wed., Dec. 8. Hike and Social, Providence. Meet at 6:00pm, Gazebo on South Water Street. Bring flashlights. Rain cancels. L Janet Harris (401-272-6772), CL Herrick Spencer (spencer295@cox.net)
Sat., Dec. 11. Queen River and Master Gardeners Trails, Exeter, RI. Start at 10:00am. Hike will combine trails at Queen River Preserve and trails around Veterans Cemetery. This is an easy hike of about 5 miles, and is good for all and new members. Call for more info. L Dick Sullivan (401-338-2880), CL Patty Gold (401-785-0691)
Sat., Dec. 11. Step by Step Mount Wachusett Hike. (wait list open) 
Ready to learn to hike safe and happy in ice and snow? We'll teach you how. Must have proper winter gear. L Steve Harrison (401-270-3363, hikersteve@cox.net), CL Mike Martin, reg/w Mike Martin (401-437-0957 7:00-9:00pm, seakayak@juno.com)
Wed., Dec. 15. Hike and Social, Bristol. Meet at 6:00pm, in front of Leo's Restaurant on 365 Hope Street. Bring flashlights. L Gregg O'Brien (401-473-8132, goh243@aol.com)
Fri., Dec. 17. Weetamoe Woods Tiverton hike. (new) Start at 10:00 am. This hike of three miles is named in honor of a indian Women. The (Term squaw is not proper usage) her name has been spelled three different ways: Weetamoe, Wettamo and Weetamoo. After hiking this area maybe some one would like to research the history of this area. Bring water, hiking shoes,snack and warm clothing. L Margaret Parsons (401-2477760, mpkayak@cox.net), CL Mary Alice Smith (401-265-4404, maryalicesmith4@gmail.com)
Sat., Dec. 18. Deep Pond Hike. Meet at 9:00 for this 8 - 9 miles hike at a moderate pace. We will do a loop consisting of Tipecansett North, Deep Pond, Hemlock Ledges, and Tipecansett south. Great views of beach pond. You will need: Hiking boots, lunch, and water. Rain will cancel. L Maria Earley (401-789-8331, momearley@netzero.com), L Chris shafer (401-789-8331)
Tue., Dec. 21. Young Members Ice Skating Social. (new) Evening of Ice Skating at the Bank of America Skating Center in downtown Providence. We'll meet at the Starbucks across the street for a hot beverage at 6:30 and then skate the night away. L Scott Disnard (sdizzy@gmail.com)
Wed., Dec. 22. Hike and Social, South Kingstown. Meet at 6:00pm, behind Applebee's at South County Commons. Bring flashlights. L Dick Sullivan (401-338-2880)
Wed., Dec. 29. Hike and Social, Wickford. Meet at 6:00pm, across from Ryan's Market. Bring flashlights. L Bob Richardson (401-364-7056)
Sat., Jan. 1. Newport Polar Bear Hike. 
Take the Polar Bear Plunge, a bracing way to start the year (or watch with the rest of us, it's quite a sight!). Join the festivities at the beach, followed by a 4-mile Cliff Walk hike and potluck social. L Sid Wax (401-849-2595, sid_w@yahoo.com)
Wed., Jan. 5. Hike and Social, Narragansett. Meet at 6:00pm, Towers Patio. Bring flashlights. L Sue Boland (401-556-3926)
Sat., Jan. 8. Tri Pond Trails Hike, South Kingstown. 10:00am start. Easy hike of about 5 miles around three ponds, with some interesting brook crossings. Good hike for all members. Call for more info. L Dick Sullivan (401-338-2880), CL Jill Keating (401-862-6159, annyjillian@cox.net)
Sat., Jan. 8. Step by Step Pack Monadnock Hike. 
Suitable for new winter hikers with proper gear. Time taken for instruction. L Steve Harrison (401-270-3363, hikersteve@cox.net), CL Mike Martin, reg/w Mike Martin (401-437-0957 7:00-9:00pm, seakayak@juno.com)
Sat., Jan. 8. Climber's Annual Party. (new) Climber's annual bash, 6:30 pm, Community Church of Providence on Wayland Avenue. Potluck. A-L appetizers, M-R entrees, S-Z desserts. RSVP to L. L Sarah Rich (401-338-3955, saeandpetzl@gmail.com)
Sat., Jan. 8. Family Hike at Cumberland Monastery. (new) Family group Saturday evening hike at Cumberland monastery. Visit historic Nine Men's Misery, and possibly visit a couple of geocaching boxes (bring little trinkets for the box if interested) Meet at 2pm, library parking lot. Call or email Ls with any questions. L Debbie Mitchell (401-743-4192, dmitchell@thebravergroup.com), L Matt Putnam , CL Matt Putnam
Tue., Jan. 11. Carter Preserve Hike, Charlestown. 5-mile hike through this little gem-RI's second-largest nature preserve. Easy walking on woodland trails. Contact L as traction devices may be neccessary. 10:00am start. Lunch/late breakfast afterward. L Marcie Madsen (401-364-6538, marcie18@att.net)
Wed., Jan. 12. Hike and Social, East Greenwich. Meet at 6:00pm, parking lot across from Harborside Restaurant, Water Street. Bring flashlights. L Sid Wax (401-849-2595, sid_w@yahoo.com)
Fri., Jan. 14. Appetizing Hike. (new) Join us on a hike that is less about walking and more about food. Short walk in then set up to cook a selection of appetizers. Estimated time 5-8 PM. Location TBA and details will be forwarded by email. Limited to first 12 respondents. Full winter clothing, something to sit on and a headlamp or flash light required. Expect to assist with group gear. Register for this one. L Al DiOrio (401-377-8124, al@awdris.com)
Fri., Jan. 14-15. Mount Passaconaway. Quick getaway. Proper gear and winter experience required. 9.2 miles with 2950' gain. 7.5 hrs. L Ed Poyer (401-783-6623, edpoyer@gmail.com), CL Tom Grasso
Fri., Jan. 14-17. Ski Sunday River/Bethel, Me., MLK Weekend. Martin Luther King Weekend. X-C or Alpine. Known for reliable snow. Stay at fine AAA rated Inn near skiing, 3 nights rms w/2queen bd, bath, refrig, cont' breakfast, 3 happy hr., dinner in town. Only $424 for 2, $212 single. 3 X-C Centers in Bethel. Send deposit by Dec. 1. L Jack Schempp, reg/w Jack Schempp (47 Arbor Dr., Providence, RI 02908, 401-331-4553 7-9 pm, jschempp1@gmail.com)
Sun., Jan. 16. Ponkapoag Pond Trail, Boardwalk, and Campground. 
9:30am start. 4.5 miles with no hills, around pond, out on boardwalk, and through the Atlantic Ceders growing, with a peat moss swamp forest floor in this acidic environment. Trail will go through AMC campground rarely used by this chapter. Easy carpool from I-95 for 35-minute trip up. L Herrick Spencer (401-723-1974, spencer295@cox.net)
Sun., Jan. 16. Wolf Hill Hike. (new) Start 9:30 AM. Moderate 5.5 mile hike with nice views of Providence. Experience some local history along the way. Great hike for new members. Dress for the weather. Boots Req. Microspikes or stabilicers may be necessary. Meet at trailhead on Water View Drive, next to the Police Station. Smithfield, RI. Registration required. L Matt Putnam (401-862-2861,mattputnam@verizon.net), CL John Feather (401-764-0438, jfeather67@cox.net)
Sun., Jan. 16. Family Hike-Audubon Society. (new) Join us at 10:15am as we explore: ASRI's McIntosh Wildlife Refuge and Environmental Education Center 1401 Hope Street (Rte 114), Bristol, 401-245-7500. The McIntosh Wildlife Refuge boasts a stroller-friendly, 1/4 mile boardwalk through fresh and saltwater marshes, across the East Bay Bike Path, ending with a majestic view of Narragansett Bay. It is also home to the Audubon Environmental Education Center (EEC). With your car just a quick walk back and the EEC to pop into, this is a great hike for the frigid days of winter. Admission fees apply for the center, but the hike is free! We'll meet just outside the doors of the EEC at 10:15am and begin our hike promptly at 10:30am. This is a RI Families in Nature Hike. L Debbie Mitchell (401-743-4192, dmitchell@thebravergroup.com)
Wed., Jan. 19. Hike and Social, Wakefield. Meet at 6:00pm. Park in municipal parking lot in center of Wakefield behind Phil's Diner. Bring flashlights. L Dick Sullivan (401-338-2880)
Fri., Jan. 21-23. Mt Madison Weekend. (full)Hike to the summit of Mt Madison by an interesting alternative route, the "Wild and scenic" Howker Ridge Tr. 8.7 miles with 4,350 ft of elevation gain. Good above tree line experience with probable trail breaking and navigation challenges for well-conditioned winter hikers. Sunday, leader's choice. Approximate cost $120.00, includes 2 nights lodging, 1 dinner, 2 breakfasts. L Charlie Killam (508-252-4349, Charlie.Killam@gmail.com), CL Joe Piotti
Sat., Jan. 22-23. Ice Climbing, North Conway, NH. (new) Designed for experienced ice/rock climbers who've attended rock courses or have equivalent experience. Must have, or rent, own gear. Must register with L. L Brian Phillips (401-783-0133, bphillips38@cox.net)
Wed., Jan. 26. Hike and Social, Jamestown. Meet at 6:00pm, Jamestown Town Dock. Bring flashlights. L Sid Wax (401-849-2595, sid_w@yahoo.com)
Thu., Jan. 27. Trails Committee Meeting. (new) At 6:30pm at Marge Gaunt's home, 152 Fishing Cove Rd, North Kingstown. Please call Marge at 295-7101 for directions if you need them. For those of you who wish to attend the meeting via teleconference, please let Elise Del Barone (508 922-2570) know, and a teleconference number will be given to you . Please call Elise for cancellation info if there is inclement weather. L Elise Del Barone (508 922-2570)
Thu., Jan. 27-30. Snowshoe Long Weekend at Harvard Cabin. 
Join us for all or a part of a long winter weekend in the eastern White Mountains. May offer multiple full hikes on Friday and Saturday, with a short hike on Sunday. Possible hikes include Moriah, Carter Dome, and Carrigain. $90 includes 3 nights lodging, Saturday breakfast and dinner, and Sunday breakfast. L Ed Poyer (401-783-6623, edpoyer@gmail.com), CL Denise Poyer
Fri., Jan. 28-30. Ski Best X-C or Alpine Snow in the Whites. 
Go for best snow, 2 nights convenient Highland Center, 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners, active intermediate skiers. Possible apres ski at Mt Washington Hotel & fun. $172.00. L Jack Schempp, reg/w Jack Schempp (47 Arbor Drive, Providence,, RI 02908, 401-331-4553 7-9 pm, jschempp1@gmail.com))
Sat., Jan. 29. Step by Step Mount Roberts Hike. Great views! Approximately 5 miles. Suitable for beginners with proper gear. L Steve Harrison (401-270-3363, hikersteve@cox.net), CL Mike Martin, reg/w Mike Martin (401-437-0957 7:00-9:00pm, seakayak@juno.com)
Sat., Jan. 29 135th AMC Annual Meeting The 135th Annual Meeting of the Appalachian Mountain Club will be held on Saturday, January 29, 2011, at The Sheraton Four Points, Norwood Hotel & Conference Center, Norwood, MA.
Fri., Feb. 4-6. Cross-Country Ski Instructional Trip (Beginner/Intermediate). Ski at Boston University's Sargent Center near Peterborough, N.H. $160 covers Friday and Saturday nights' bunk room lodging, meals on Saturday and Sunday, happy hour, skiing at Sargent Center, and instruction in small groups. Ski rentals available. L has option to move event to 2/18-20 by 1/31 postponement deadline, if adequate snow is in question. Non-refundable $50 deposit and SASE due by 1/4 (balance due by 1/14) and payable to Chris Shafer, P.O. Box 103, Wakefield, RI 02880. L Chris Shafer, reg/w Chris Shafer (401-789-8331 7:00-9:00pm, christopher.shafer@dem.ri.gov)
Fri., Feb. 4-6. Mount Whiteface Hike. 
Stay at ski lodge in North Conway. $110 for two nights, two breakfasts, and one dinner. Hike is 8.3 miles with 2850' elevation gain. Moderate pace. L Steve Harrison, CL Mike Martin , reg/w Steve Harrison (401-270-3363 7:00-9:00pm, hikersteve@cox.net)
Fri., Feb. 11-13. North and South Twin hike. Long, strenuous day. Expect to exit by headlamp. Proper winter gear and winter experience required. Sunday is L's choice. $115 includes two nights lodging and meals. L Ed Poyer (401-783-6623, edpoyer@gmail.com), CL Charlie Killam
Fri., Feb. 11-13. Ski Best XC or Alpine in the Whites. Best snow in Whites, Highland Center, two nights, two breakfasts, two dinners. Apres-ski at Mount Washington Hotel for active skiers. $172/pp. L Jack Schempp, reg/w Jack Schempp (47 Arbor Dr, Providence, RI 02908, 401-331-4553 7-9 pm, jschempp1@gmail.com)
Thu., Feb. 17. Hike Carter Preserve, Charlestown. 5-mile hike through this little gem-RI's second largest nature preserve. Easy walking on woodland trails. 10:00am start. Contact L, as traction devices may be necessary. Lunch/late breakfast afterward. L Marcie Madsen (401-364-6538, marcie18@att.net)
Sat., Feb. 19. Step by Step Mount Greylock. Massachusetts' highest! 6-8 miles depending on group and conditions. Proper gear required. L Steve Harrison (401-270-3363, hikersteve@cox.net), CL Mike Martin, reg/w Mike Martin (401-437-0957,, 7:00-9:00pm, seakayak@juno.com)
Fri., Feb. 25-27. Franconia Ridge Traverse. 
Challenging, rewarding hike with spectacular views along the ridge from Lafayette to Lincoln. Exposed hiking above treeline for well conditioned, experienced winter hikers. 10 miles, 4,000 ft of elevation gain, all day hike. Sunday, leader's choice For well conditioned, experienced winter hikers. Approximate cost $120.00, includes 2 nights lodging, 1 dinner, 2 breakfasts. L Charlie Killam (508-252-4349, Charlie.Killam@gmail.com), CL Jim Dunn
Sat., Feb. 26-27. Ice Climbing, Smuggler's Notch, VT. (new) Designed for experienced rock climbers who have attended rock courses or have equivalent experience. Must have, or rent, own gear. Cost share lodging. Must register with L Peter Barlow (860-675-3772, freeeclimb@aol.com)
Fri., Mar. 4-6. Northern Presidential Cabin Backpack. Backpack to rustic (i.e., unheated, unlit) Randolph Mountain Club Crag Camp cabin at treeline on Mount Adams. Great way to practice skills for winter backpacking. Full winter gear and winter hiking experience required. $63 fee includes motel and cabin. L Ed Poyer (401-783-6623, edpoyer@gmail.com), CL Mike McGuinan
Sat., Mar. 12. Step by Step Mounts Percival and Morgan. End the winter with great views! Must have proper winter gear. 5.1 miles at a moderate pace. L Steve Harrison (401-270-3363, hikersteve@cox.net), CL Mike Martin, reg/w Mike Martin (401-437-0957 7:00-9:00pm, seakayak@juno.com)
Fri., Mar. 18. Colt State Park walk, Bristol, RI. (new) 3 mile walk on mostly paved paths in this picturesque water front park with 464 acres of woods, groomed fruit trees and lawns with panoramic bay views. L Margie Parsons (401-2477760, mpkayak@cox.net), CL Mary Alice Smith
Fri., Mar. 25. Mt Hope Farm walk, Bristol RI. (new) Approx 3 mile walk around this historic salt water farm overlooking Mt. Hope and Narragansett Bays. Possible site of death of King Philip of the Wampanogs during the King Philip War. Later a dairy farm owned by the Haffenreffer family whose Native American artifact collection eventually became a museum. L Margie Parsons (401-2477760, mpkayak@cox.net), CL Mary Alice Smith (401-265-4404, maryalicesmith4@gmail.com)
Sat., Mar. 26. 8th Annual Land and Water Conservation SummitBeing presented by the Narragansett Bay Estuary Program, this day of events includes an excellent speaker and thirty interesting seminars relating to land, including gardens, and water issues, 200-300 attend. Meet everyone who is involved with land & water. Cost about $40 including very good breakfast and lunch. Read more....