The Gansett Gazette

December-January
2017

Chapter Leadership Roster

Narragansett Chapter Annual Meeting
November 19th

Our Annual meeting was held on Saturday November 19th at the Save the Bay facility in Providence. Our featured speaker this year was Garry Harrington talking about his adventures in his new AMC book "Chasing Summits". The Chapter's major awards, as described below, were presented at the meeting.

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. This year the award was given to Sid Wax.

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. Jean Marie Josephson was given the award for this year.

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. The award was presented to Jerry Bernardini.

Register Now for AMC’s 2017 Annual Summit!
January 28, 2017
at Four Points by Sheraton, Norwood, MA

Annual Summit is AMC’s thanks to the people who make our mission a reality everyday: our members and dedicated volunteers!

Whether you’re a lifelong member or a newcomer interested in discovering all that AMC has to offer, we hope you will join us!

Our workshop schedule offers something for everyone: Need CPR certification? Want to walk through Blue Hills Reservation while learning about forest ecology? Interested in new navigation apps, or pro tips for backcountry photography? Check out the offerings here!

The event features:
Your choice of more than 20 workshops and presentations

• A delicious buffet lunch
• An early evening Celebration Reception, with a drink and hors d'oeuvres
• AMC's annual volunteer service awards
• Committee meetings, open to all
• The 141st Annual Business Meeting

For those traveling a distance, who would like to stay Friday and/or Saturday night, we have secured a great group rate. You’ll find the lodging details on the registration page.

Register at www.outdoors.org/AnnualSummit
$30, if you register by December 31;
$40 if you register in January

2017 Adult Volunteer Vacations for Winter

Note, if you can only include a limited selection, the ones in bold should take priority.
Photos: Costa Rica and crew on the Pacific Crest Trail

January 21-28, 2017
January 28-February 4, 2017
Costa Rica Trail Volunteer Vacation
$550 Member/$610 Non-Member

February 11-18, 2017
February 18-25, 2017
Virgin Islands National Park Volunteer Vacation
$450 Member/$495 Non-Member



March 11-18, 2017
So. California Pacific Crest Trail Crew Volunteer Vacation
Fly in/out of San Diego, CA
$450 Member/$495 Non-Member

More volunteer Vacations in "Notices & Reminders" section of front page.

Get Ready for August Camp 2017

• Week 1: July 15 - July 22
• Week 2: July 22 - July 29
• Week 3: July 29 - Aug. 5
• Week 4: Aug. 5 - Aug. 12

ACTIVITIES

Wed., Dec. 7. Hike and Social-LaSalette Shrine. Walk the grounds of the beautiful LaSalette Shrine and get into the holiday spirit. Dress for the weather - boots recommended if it is wet or snowy. Bring flashlights. :Location: 947 Park St, Attleboro, MA. Rain, heavy snow or bad driving conditions cancels. http://lasaletteattleboroshrine.org. L N Gregg O'Brien (401-473-8132, goh243@aol.com)

Sat., Dec. 10. Napatree Point Beach Walk, Watch Hill, Westerly, RI. Explore a beautiful Rhode Island beach: Napatree Point, Watch Hill, RI. Hike 2-3 miles RT, depending on temperatures and wind. Great views of Watch Hill, Fisher's Island, and Block Island Sound. Followed by a warm-up visit (Irish coffee, anyone?) to the Ocean House, a meticulously reconstructed turn-of-the-century hotel, a grande dame of New England hospitality, perched high on the ocean bluffs of Watch Hill. Lunch (soups, scones, muffins, biscotti) may be taken at the Savoy Bookstore and Cafe in the Savoy Hotel in downtown Westerly, amongst the holiday cheer of the season (all optional). Partnering with the Boston Chapter. Meet at 10:30am Watch Hill town parking area (down at the harbor). L Cesare Mitrano (401-789-8731 5:00pm-9:00pm, cmitrano@aol.com) CL Barbara Fay (617-694-5612 6:00pm-8:00pm)

Wed., Dec. 14. Hike and Social - Cliff Walk at Full Moon - Newport. 2 1/2-3 mile hike and we go out to to dinner. Get off the couch and join us. Let's hope for a clear night, and we will see the last full moon of the year as it rises up over the water. Meet at CVS on Bellevue Ave. Flashlights. Leave at 6 pm. L Sidney Wax (401-935-5466, sid_w@yahoo.com)

Wed., Dec. 21. Hike and Social, Slater Park Pawtucket. We will Hike to see Slater Park lighted up by 500 lighted up Christmas Trees. On this 1.33 mile hike. afterwards go to eat nearby. Rain or snow cancels.
Directions: If coming from the East Bay take exit I in Seekonk from I-95 on to Rt. 114A or 114 north on Taunton Ave.. Merge on to 1A Newport Ave. Drive to Slater park. Take a right turn into the park and park in the first parking lot on your right. If coming from 95 south take exit 28 (school Street) make a right turn at bottom of ramp, a right turn at the next light on to Main Street. (the street name changes later to Walcott) Drive all the way until it dead ends Bloomfield St, make a right, drive down to Columbus Ave. make a left turn, and a right turn into Newport Ave. Make a left turn into Slater Park. Park in the first parking lot on your right. L Herrick Spencer (401-723-1974 anytime, spencer295@cox.net)

Tue., Dec. 27. Roger Williams Zoo Hike and lunch. Roger Williams Zoo is free for the last week of 2016. Let's walk the zoo, greeting the animals in their winter environment and walking off those pre-holiday treats. Meet at 10:30. Enter from Elmwood Ave, and follow signs to the Zoo parking. Lunch after at Twin Oaks. Wear comfortable, weather appropriate clothing and footwear. Rain, snow or bad driving conditions cancels. "Visitors are encouraged to join in the spirit of giving by bringing nonperishable food, gently used coats or warm winter gear such as hats, gloves, mittens and scarves. Donations can be dropped in boxes at the admission gates.". L N. Gregg OBrien (401-473-8132, Goh243@aol.com)

Wed., Dec. 28. Hike and Social, Narragansett. 2 1/2-3 mile hike and we go to dinner. Get off the couch and join us. Meet at the courtyard by the Narragansett Towers near the Coast Guard House. Leave at 6:00 pm sharp. Bring Flashlight. L Susan Boland (401-788-3534, sboland3@verizon.net)

Sun., Jan. 1. Newport Polar Bear Hike. After a year's hiatus, the polar bear hike returns. 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. Meet at CVS, Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI. Please register with leader. L Sidney Wax (401-849-2595, sid_w@yahoo.com)

Fri., Jan. 6-8. Beginner Winter Mountain Hiking Weekend. Think Winter Hiking is not for you? Let us convince you otherwise on this relaxed weekend of hiking near Crawford Notch, NH. This two night trip will include some instruction before trying out a moderate hike on Saturday. We'll cover how to stay warm and comfortable using layers. We'll also go over proper fit and use of snowshoes, traction, and poles. The hike will be followed by a hearty meal at a cozy motel shared with old and new friends. Sunday's hike will be leaders' choice. This trip is suitable for fit, three season hikers who want to learn how to hike in the best season of all, winter. It is also opened to more experienced winter hikers who are looking for a moderate hike at a moderate pace. The fee of $115 includes two nights lodging, two breakfasts, and one dinner. You provide your own lunch and snacks. Required equipment includes waterproof, insulated winter boots. Snowshoes, crampons, light traction and poles available for rent if you don't already have them. A complete list of suggested winter clothing and gear will be supplied upon request. Feel free to discuss your gear and concerns with the leader. You will not be registered until the leader receives your check. L Denise Poyer (denisepoyer@gmail.com) CL Kerri Green, reg/w Kerri Green (kegreslp@gmail.com)

Sat., Jan. 7. Hike with Dogs: Duval Trail, South Kingstown. Join us for a 2.4 mile moderate level hike through an area with hill and kettle topography left over from the last ice age. The hike includes a scenic overlook that features sweeping ocean views and Block Island to the south. There are spots for dogs to take a dip in the water if they are interested. L Bonnie England (bonniedune@aol.com) CL Russ Miller

Sat., Jan. 07. Introduction to Cross Country Skiing, Carlisle, MA. (Moved to Jan 21, due to lack of snow.)

Wed., Jan. 11. Hike and Social, Touisset Marsh Wildlife Refuge, Warren, RI. Get off the couch and enjoy a 2-3 mile hike in the Touisset Marsh Wildlife Refuge. It is opposite 100 Touisset Rd, Warren, RI; park in the Audubon lot, not the Fire station. Dress for the weather and wind; footwear for wooded trails and marshy areas; and bring a flashlight. There will be a full moon, clouds allowing, so we hope to navigate by the stars and moon. L Jean Josephson (401-245-5523, kayakjmj@yahoo.com) CL Gregg O'Brien (Goh243@aol.com)

Thu., Jan. 12. Winter Gear Workshop. This workshop is for three season hikers who are interested in getting into winter hiking. You will have the opportunity to learn about and discuss the clothing and gear you will need to stay warm and safe on winter hiking outings. Clothing, footwear, snowshoes, crampons, and other equipment will be demonstrated by Narragansett Chapter Northern Hikes leaders. Co-hosted with REI, 22 Chapel View Blvd Cranston, RI. Register at www.rei.com/cranston. L Charles Killam (Charlie.Killam@gmail.com)

Fri., Jan. 13-16. Martin Luther King weekend - XC ski in North Conway, NH. Stay in private centrally located ski club in N. Conway. 4 cross country ski areas within 25 minute drive, or choose downhill skiing, snowshoeing or hiking. Stay in unique 30 room, 150 yr. old former Victorian inn. Lodging 2-4 to a room. 2 nights $69, 3 nights $93. Cost includes lodging, breakfasts and Saturday dinner. Limited to 10. For more info, contact leader. L Marcie Madsen (401-364-6538, marciem18@verizon.net)

Wed., Jan. 18. Hike and Social - Kingston Bike Path. 2 1/2 - 3 mile hike and we go to dinner. Get off the couch and join us. Meet at Kingston train station on Rt 138. 6:00pm. Flashlights, warm clothes, and proper footgear for conditions. We expect snow on the bike path. Venue may change depending on footing conditons. L Sidney Wax (401-935-5466, sid_w@yahoo.com) CL Carolyn Gilligan (carolyn.gilligan.cg@gmail.com) CL Pat Gilligan

Sat., Jan. 21-22. Ice Climbing Lincoln, NH. Designed for experienced rock climber's who have attended the rock courses or have equivalent experience. Must have or rent, boots, crampons, and ice tools. Also open to others who want to ski, snow shoe, or winter hike. Inexpensive lodging available at ski club. Register with Trip Leader. L Joseph Vaglio, CL Peter Barlow (freeeclimb@aol.com), reg/w Joe Vaglio (jvvaglio@gmail.com)

Sat., Jan. 21. Introduction to Cross Country Skiing, Carlisle, MA.(Canceled, to be rescheduled in future.) Day trip to Great Brook Farm nordic ski center, about 1 hour northeast of Providence. Good for beginner to intermediate level skiers. Instruction provided by leaders if needed by any participants; will divide group according to ability, if necessary. Day pass obtained at center and ski rentals available on site. Dress in layers and bring water, snacks, and lunch. Meet in morning for car pooling at Triboro Plaza entrance parking area in Attleboro Falls (take RT. 152 exit (exit 5) off I-95 north and proceed right off exit for short distance to plaza, on right, at 125 Robert Toner Blvd.). Contact leaders for meeting time and confirmation of trip (snow dependent). L Christopher Shafer, CL Mark Dennen (401-354-9377, zenmartialartist@gmail.com), reg/w Christopher Shafer (401-789-8331 7PM - 9PM, christopher.shafer@dem.ri.gov)

Wed., Jan. 25. Hike and Social, Warren 2 1/2-3 mile hike and we go to dinner. Get off the couch and join us. We will meet at the Warren Beach parking lot on Water St, and walk around the town. Flashlights, and dress for the weather. L Cindy Benevides (401-486-1505, cindyben@fullchannel.net) CL JeanMarie Josephson (kayakjmj@yahoo.com)

Sat., Jan. 21. Hike with Dogs: Steere Hill, Glocester. Join us for a 2-3 mile hike with gentle slopes.The trail meanders through Steere Hill Farm Conservation Area that once included fruit tree orchards. We will pass remnants of farm activity. L G. Russell Miller (grmiller01@msn.com) CL Paul Wynn

Fri., Jan. 27-29. Step by Step - Webster/Jackson. Moderate day hike to the summits of Mt Jackson and Webster for new winter hikers and other winter hikers looking for a moderate winter hike. 6.5 mile hike at a moderate pace, with time allowed for new winter hikers to learn and practice winter skills and learn how to enjoy the winter. Sunday, Leader's choice. Some rental gear available. Approximate cost $125.00, includes 2 nights lodging, 2 breakfasts and 1 dinner. L Charles Killam, CL Bill Rush, reg/w Charles Killam (Charlie.Killam@gmail.com)

Sun., Jan. 29. XC Skiing at Pulaski Park. If there is no snow, we'll hike. Either way, we go. Dress appropriately, Face masks recommended. Bring water, snacks, and lunch. Novices and experienced skiers (not for beginners). Location: 151 Pulaski Road, Chepachet, RI. L Linda Pease (401-351-2234, linda.pease@cox.net) CL Christine Satterwhite (csatterw@gmail.com)

ADVANCE NOTICES