The Gansett Gazette

February-March
2013

From the Chair

Happy New Year to all!

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Bonnie England, our past chair for her great contribution to the Narragansett Chapter serving as Vice-Chair and Chair , and also for her help in the development of the popular dog hikes. It has been a pleasure working with her over the past few years. I look forward to serving as Chapter Chair and working with our great group of volunteers. We are currently looking for volunteers for the positions of local hikes sub chair and family group sub chair. If you think you may be interested in stepping up to one of these rewarding positions or would like additional information, please contact us. We would like to thank Carol Baldwin for the great job over the past year as local hikes sub chair.

We are so fortunate to have so many dedicated volunteers, and are happy to announce that in addition to the popular Wilderness First Aid Course that is offered on an annual basis (April 13th and 14th this year) the Leadership committee will be offering a one day leadership training on April 27th. More details to follow.

Hopefully many of you are enjoy the numerous outdoor winter activities that are offered over the next few months. Our annual spring fling will be held on May 11th this year at Goddard Park.

Debbie

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 Subchair-Volunteer needed
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.

Local Hikes Subchair Still Open

The Chapter desperately needs a hiking leader to step forward and fill this important position. This is a "behind the scenes" position that approves and communicates local hikes activities to our membership. You have the opportunity to communicate and meet with all our wonderful Rhode Island local hikes leaders, and assist in training new local hikes leaders. The position requires an interest in helping others, basic computer skills, good communication skills and a sense of voluntarism within our Chapter. For information or to volunteer, contact Chris Shafer.


Trip Registration

A reminder on registering for all of our activities. All our trips (almost all) require attendees to register prior to attending. Register with the leader (L) of the activity to find the time and place of the activity, and any requirements as to experience and equipment needed. Some trips prefer you to register with (reg/w) someone other than the leader. Be sure to meet any deadlines for registration and payment.

AMC's 137th Annual Summit

The Appalachian Mountain Club's 137th Annual Summit (formerly known as Annual Meeting) will be held on Saturday, January 26, 2013, at the Four Points by Sheraton, Norwood Hotel & Conference Center, Norwood, MA.
www.outdoors.org/about/annualsummit/index.cfm

The day's activities, which begin at 8:00 a.m., will include:
  • AMC's 137th Annual Business Meeting
  • Celebrating the 45th anniversary of AMC's Youth Opportunities Program (YOP)
  • Club-wide committee meetings
  • Club-wide volunteer awards
  • Engaging professional development workshops
  • AMC Showcase
At night, join us at 6:00 p.m. for dinner and a presentation by our keynote speaker, Audrey Peterman, president and co-founder of Earthwise Productions.
Registration is required.
If you plan to attend the full days events including dinner, contact Tom Eagan.
Additional Information or Questions:
Contact Cindy Martell at 617-391-6603
AMCAnnualSummit@outdoors.org.

Winter Hiking Resources

When winter hiking season, members are reminded about wearing florescent orange when in any of the State Management Areas. Leaders will remind you when you sign up for a trip. Information on specific requirement are on our web site under the “Recreational/Local Hikes” section “Hunting Season and Orange”.

Weather in Rhode Island is fickle and the melting and freezing causes a glaze of ice that is often covered by snow. If it would only stay cold the problem would be solved but in the meantime, hikers should consider purchasing some type of ice traction device. Advice on different types, costs and availability are on our website on the “Recreational/Local Hikes” page and also under the “Winter Snow Resources”. Prepare yourself with the required equipment before you sign up for a winter hike.

For those who wish to take up serious winter hiking, look over the requirements on our “Winter Snow Resources” are reviewed under “Winter Hiking Equipment and Clothing”.

For the latest information on the listed hikes and activities always refer to the online Gazette and Calendar. The mailed/printed Gazette is published every two months. This is a long time and changes and additions are bound to occur during that interval. For even shorter notification, weather critical trips like XC skiing may or may not get in the online Gazette, so subscribe to the email list server. Look under “Activity Listings/Join email lists” on the front page of the website, or go directly to the sign up page. Some notices and changes may also be listed in the “Message Board”.

Leader and Prospective Leader Training

As leaders in the AMC , standards of excellence and knowledge are always strived for. This Spring we are offering two training and leadership programs. We encourage our leaders and members who may want to become leaders, to consider attending either or both of these events.

On April 13-14 our Wilderness First Aid (SOLO) two day course is being offered. This course will provide the knowledge you will need to deal with medical emergencies when you are more than one hour from medical care. View this photo album for photos and videos of last years training.

On April 27 our Leadership Training Workshop is being offered. This workshop will help you develop and practice important skills needed to successfully lead safe and enjoyable chapter activities. See the "Advance Notices" for full information on registering.

Website Password to be Changed

The new website password (usually only needed for administrative purposes) will be changed on Feb 1st. As usual it is related to some significant event. This year is skiing related. Here are some of the previous passwords. Kayak2001 is the year when the Atlantic Ocean was first crossed (many before were never heard from again) in a single person kayak. Climb1953 is the year when Hillary and Norgay summited (a real climb) Mt. Everest. Hike1812 is the year of the march (a disastrous hike by any definition) and retreat on Moscow by Napoleon. The new password is listed in the printed Gazette. For those who do not receive the printed version, contact the webmaster.

Fri., Feb. 1-3. Cross-Country Skiing Beginner/Intermediate Instructional Weekend. (see reschedule on Feb 22-24) $160 fee includes Fri & Sat lodging at Sargent Center, 3 Sat meals and 2 Sun meals, happy hour, and ski instruction at Sargent Center in small groups. Ski rentals available. Possible additional day ticket fee for any skiing off-site. Leader has option to move event to Feb 22-24 weekend, by Jan 28 postponement deadline, if adequate snow is in question. Send full payment by Jan. 15, payable to Chris Shafer. L Christopher Shafer, reg/w Christopher Shafer (PO Box 103, Wakefield, RI 02880, 401-789-8331 7 PM - 9 PM, christopher.shafer@dem.ri.gov)

ACTIVITIES

Fri., Feb. 1-3. Intermediate X-C Skiing, N. Conway. (canceled) 2-nights lodging, two breakfasts, one dinner at warm and friendly ski club lodge. North Conway region. Limit 10 participants. Fee $100. L Susan Rollins (401-521-7188 6:00 - 8:00 PM), L Larry Rollins (401-521-7188 6:00 - 8:00 PM)

Fri., Feb. 1-3. Mt Moosilauke Day Hiking Weekend. One of the leader's favorite hikes offers spectacular views from very exposed summit. Trip for experienced winter hikers with full winter gear. $120 includes 2 nights' lodging , 2 breakfasts and 1 dinner. L Stephen Harrison, CL Mike McGuigan , reg/w Steve Harrison (401-270-3363 7-9 pm, hikersteve@cox.net)

Sat., Feb. 2. Winter from Providence's Highest Peak. Join us with Neutakonkanut Hill Conservancy for a winter walk on Neutaconkanut Hill. Meet at the Neutaconkanut Hill Recreation Center Parking lot at 675 Plainfield st, Providence. We will climb to the summit of the hill. Dress for walking in wooded areas. Walk the forest trails of the Hill created in the 1930's by the WPA, many recreated by the Neutokonkanut Hill Conservancy. Winter emphasizes the spectacular views of the city. Rain date Sunday Feb 3. Heavy rain or snow cancels. Call Susan (946-6594, susan@nhill.org), or Elli (943-1219, elli.neuthill@gmail.com). L Debbie Mitchell (401-074-3419 x2, dmitchell@thebravergroup.com)

Wed., Feb. 6. Hike/social, South Kingstown, bike path. 2-3 mile hike and we go to dinner... Meet at Curtis Corner Middle School.. Get off the couch and join us. Bring a flashlight. L Susan Boland (401-556-3926, sboland2@cox.net)

Fri., Feb. 8-10. Ski Best Snow in White Mts, Bretton Woods. Best reliable, well-groomed snow. Stay at AMC Highland Center, Crawford Notch, 2 happy hours, breakfasts, dinners, 2 nights lodging, 2/rm, bunks. Possible visit to Mt Washington Hotel, fun, good company! Fee $187. L Jack Schempp, reg/w Jack Schempp (47 Arbor Drive, Providence, RI 02908, 401-331-4553 7-9, jschempp1@gmail.com)

Fri., Feb. 8-10. Wildcat Ridge Traverse. Hike the length of the Wildcat Ridge with spectacular views of the Presidential Range and Mt. Washington. Challenging all day hike, 9.4 miles with 3,250 ft of elevation gain for experienced, well-conditioned winter hikers. Sunday, leaders' choice. Stay at Joe Dodge Lodge, approximate cost $160.00, includes 2 breakfasts and 1 dinner. Register by Jan 20. L Charles Killam (Charlie.Killam@gmail.com), CL Elise Hedglen , reg/w Elise Hedglen (ehedglen@yahoo.com)

Sat., Feb. 9. Hike with dogs. Hike/Walk at Tillinghast Mgmt Area with dogs. L Judy Van Wyk (peacefulpeople@yahoo.com), CL Russ Miller , CL Bonnie England , reg/w Bonnie England (bonniedune@aol.com)

Sun., Feb. 10. Afternoon hike at Cumberland monastery. (canceled) Come join us for a winter hike at Cumberland monastery. There are nice views of Providence and a visit to historic Nine Men's Misery, approximately 3 miles at leisurely pace. Meet at 2pm at gazebo near senior center. Families are welcome. Call or email L with any questions. L Debbie Mitchell (401-743-4192, dmitchell@thebravergroup.com)

Tue., Feb. 12. Beach Pond South, Arcadia Mgmt area hike. 7-8 mile hike using Tippecansett, Dye Hill, Brushy Brook & Hemlock Ledges trails. Long day. Must wear legal orange. Bring water, snacks & lunch. 9:30 start. L Marcie Madsen (401-364-6538, marcie18@att.net), L Margie Parsons (401-743-3405, mpkayak@cox.net)

Tue., Feb. 12. Bike Planning Meeting. Time to plan this years bike rides. Can you believe it! If you would like to get involved, lead or co-lead bike rides, you are welcome to attend the meeting. Space limited, so please let me know you'll attend. Meeting 6:00pm at the Cranston Public Library on Sockanassett Road. L Marcie Madsen (401-364-6538, marcie18@att.net)

Wed., Feb. 13. Hike/social, Garden City, Cranston. (new) 2 1/2 - 3 mile hike and we go out to eat. Get off the couch and join us. 6 pm at Whole Foods on Sockanosset Cross Road. Bring a flashlight. This walk is rescheduled from Jan 16. L Sidney Wax (401-849-2595, sid_w@yahoo.)

Fri., Feb. 15-18. Challenging Day Hikes on Presidents Day Weekend. Enjoy spectacular views from a remote 4,000 foot peak. For those in good condition with winter experience. Long day possible. Proper winter gear required. Sunday's hike is leaders' choice. $185 for 3 nights' lodging, 3 breakfasts and 2 dinners. L Ed Poyer (EdPoyer@gmail.com), CL Mike McGuigan

Sat., Feb. 16. North South Trail segment 3 of 10. (rescheduled from canceled Feb 9th) 3rd section of NST will start at George Washington Management area and take us to Rt 101 near the CT border. We will meet near 101, car spot to GWMA and hike south. Please be prepared with water, snacks/lunch and orange vest for this approx 7 mile segment. This is a mixed terrain section including roads and trail at an average/moderate pace. L Pam Hill, CL Carol Baldwin (ctbaldwin36@yahoo.com), reg/w Pam Hill (pjsh40@aol.com)

Sat., Feb. 16. Foxwoods Museum. If you liked the movie Night at the Museum and you like Disney and great technology you'll love this place. For your money, you'll see a great movie, explore a huge museum you can't digest in one day. History from the ice age to today. Explore Pequot history and discover your own history. Families, new members, old members and young members are welcome. L Yvonne Federowicz (yvonne_federowicz@brown.edu), CL Margie Parsons (mpkayak@cox.net)

Sat., Feb. 16. XC ski trip to Windblown. For all level of skiers, as long as you have some experience. Carpooling from Lincoln Mall. L Linda Pease (401-351-2234 7-9 pm, linda.pease@cox.net), CL Chris Turgeon (turgeon77@ymail.com). See windblownxc.com for info.

Sat., Feb. 16. Cumberland monastery hike. (new) Come join us for a winter hike at Cumberland monastery. There are nice views of Providence and a visit to historic Nine Men's Misery, approximately 3 miles at leisurely pace. Meet at 10:30am at gazebo near senior center. Families are welcome. Call or email L with any questions. L Debbie Mitchell (401-743-4192, dmitchell@thebravergroup.com)

Wed., Feb. 20. Maxwell Mays Refuge/Parker Woodlands hike. First hike 3 miles in the Mays Refuge, then drive 10 minutes for a 5 mile hike in Parker Woodlands. Depending on weather, may need snowshoes or traction devices. Bring Water, snacks lunch. 9:30 start. L Marcie Madsen (401-364-6538, marcie18@att.net), L Margie Parsons (401-743-3405, mpkayak@cox.net)

Wed., Feb. 20. Hike and Social - Wickford. (new) 2-3 mile hike and we go out to eat. Get off the couch and join us. Meet at the municipal lot behind Rite Aid. 6 pm. Bring flashlight. L Richard Sullivan (401-338-2880, grampydick2001@yahoo.com)

Fri., Feb. 22-24. Cross-Country Skiing Beginner/Intermediate Instructional Weekend. (newly scheduled) $160 fee includes Fri & Sat lodging at Sargent Center, 3 Sat meals and 2 Sun meals, happy hour, and ski instruction at Sargent Center in small groups. Ski rentals available. Possible additional day ticket fee for any skiing off-site. Send full payment, payable to Chris Shafer, to PO Box 103, Wakefield, RI 02880. Deadline for leader to receive payment is Feb. 15. For any questions, contact Chris. reg/w Christopher Shafer (PO Box 103, Wakefield, RI 02880, 401-789-8331 7 PM - 9 PM, christopher.shafer@dem.ri.gov)

Sat., Feb. 23-24. Ice Climbing, Smuggler's Notch, VT. Designed for experienced rock climbers who have attended the rock courses or have equivalent experience. Must have, or rent, own gear. Cost share lodging. Must register with leader. L Peter Barlow (860-675-3772, freeeclimb@aol.com)

Sat., Feb. 23. Belknap Loop Step by Step Day Trip. Investigate curious rock furniture, a firetower and the summit of a ski area. Early start from RI with eat out after. Preference given to previous step by step participants. Full winter gear required. L Stephen Harrison, CL Scott Disnard , reg/w Steve Harrison (401-270-3363 7-9 pm, hikersteve@cox.net)

Sat., Feb. 23. Hike with dogs. Hike/Walk at Weetamoo, Tiverton. L Bonnie England, CL Russ Miller , CL Leslie Kelleter , reg/w Bonnie England (bonniedune@aol.com)

Sun., Feb. 24. Young Members Snow Tubing Social. (new) Lets go snow tubing! come out and meet others AMC'ers and play in the snow! Afterwards we can head out for some food. www.yawgoo.com/snowtubing.htm L Scott Disnard (sdizzy@gmail.com), reg/w Scott Disnard

Wed., Feb. 27. Narragansett Trail/Yawgoog Trail hike. Hike 5-7 miles on Narragansett Trail and explore trails around Yawgoog. If good weather will extend to include Long Pond/Ell Pond. Some steep possibly slippery sections. Sturdy boots, water, lunch. 9:30 start. L Marcie Madsen (401-364-6538, marcie18@att.net), L Margie Parsons (401-743-3405, mpkayak@cox.net)

Wed., Feb. 27. Hike and Social, Newport, Cliff Walk. 2-3 mile walk and we'll go out to eat. Get off the couch and join us. 6 pm, CVS on Bellevue Ave. L Sidney Wax (401-849-2595, sid_w@yahoo.com)

Sun., Mar. 3. Hike with dogs. Hike/Walk at Francis Carter woods with dogs. L Bonnie England, CL Russ Miller , CL Judy Van Wyk , reg/w Bonnie England (bonniedune@aol.com)

Sun., Mar. 3. Afternoon hike at Cumberland Monastery. (Rescheduled from February 10.) Come join us for a winter hike at Cumberland monastery. There are nice views of Providence and a visit to historic Nine Men's Misery, approximately 3 miles at leisurely pace. Meet at 2pm at gazebo near senior center. Families are welcome. Call or email L with any questions. L Debbie Mitchell (401-743-4192, dmitchell@thebravergroup.com), CL Lori Shakan

Tue., Mar. 5. Escoheag/Mt Tom trails hike. Beautiful 7 mile hike includes Mt. Tom ledges. May need snowshoes OR traction devices. Sturdy boots, water, snacks, lunch. Probable stop at Middle of Nowhere Diner after. Short car spot. 9:30 start. L Marcie Madsen (401-364-6538, marcie18@att.net), L Margie Parsons (401-743-3405, mpkayak@cox.net)

Wed., Mar. 6. 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 Aylum Rd, off Buttonwoods. Flashlights. Contact CL for info. L Sidney Wax (401-849-2595, sid_w@yahoo.com), CL Ginny Calabrese (401-782-6518)

Sun., Mar. 10. Family Hike, John F Chafee Preserve/Rome Point. (new) Bring family and friends for a short hike (~2 miles RT) at Chafee Nature Preserve/Rome Point, North Kingstown. Marine biologist Dr. Kathy Vigness-Raposa will provide binoculars and a spotting scope for a close-up view of harbor seals, if we are lucky, along with family-friendly fun facts about seals in RI and the history behind Rome Point. L Dick Sullvian (grampydick2001@yahoo.com), CL Kathy Raposa (kvigness@aol.com), CL Debbie Mitchell (401-743-4192, dmitchell@thebravergroup.com)

Mon., Mar. 11. NST Ben Utter/River Trail. maintenance. (rescheduled from Mar 6) Assist trails committee in removing blow downs and to brush North South Trail sections in the Arcadia Management Area. No experience needed. Tools provided. Sturdy, waterproof boots, work gloves, water, and snack needed. contact leader for more details. Start at 10 to about 3. L Jennie Crooks (401-739-5497, jbcrooks1@verizon.net)

Wed., Mar. 13. Hike and Social, Bristol. 2-3 m hike and we'll go out to eat. Get off the couch and join us. 6pm. Meet at WWII gun near end of the Bike Path (Thames and Oliver Sts). Walk through Bristol, winding up at Quito's (411 Thames St). There will be some Geocaches along the way. Let us know if you will stay to eat. Contact CL. L Sidney Wax (401-849-2595, sid_w@yahoo.com), CL Jean Marie Josephson (401-245-5523, kayakjmj@yahoo.com)

Fri., Mar. 15-17. Carrigain Weekend. (Registration is closed)Join us for our attempt at Carrigain by the Signal Ridge Trail. Challenging, 14 mile/3,250ft hike for intermediate to experienced, well-conditioned winter hikers. Long day, possible return in the dark. Sunday, leaders choice. Stay at Shapliegh Bunkhouse Friday and Saturday nights. Approximate cost $110.00, includes 2 nights lodging and 2 breakfasts. Must Reg by Feb 27. L Charles Killam (Charlie.Killam@gmail.com), CL Scott Disnard (sdizzy@gmail.com), reg/w Scott Disnard (sdizzy@gmail.com)

Fri., Mar. 15-17. Mt. Waumbek/Tecumseh Step-by-Step. Sat, moderate climb to a Presidential view, a winter wonderland ridge, and a 4,000 ft peak. 7.8 mi with 2850 ft elevation gain. Sun, hike to Waterville Valley ski summit. Full winter gear required. $125 for 2 nights' motel, 2 breakfasts and 1 dinner. L Ed Poyer (EdPoyer@gmail.com), CL Elise Hedglen , reg/w Elise Hedglen (96 Spencer Ct, Wakefield, RI 02879, ehedglen@yahoo.com)

Wed., Mar. 20. Hike/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. Bring a flashlight. L Susan Boland (401-556-3926, sboland2@cox.net)

Wed., Mar. 20. Arcadia Trail Spring Equinox hike. (new) First day of Spring! Nice 7 mile hike in Arcadia Management Area. May need traction devices. Brng water, lunch snacks. Stop at Middle of Nowhere Diner after. L Marcie Madsen (401-364-6538, marcie18@att.net), L Margie Parsons (401-743-3405, mpkayak@cox.net)

Sat., Mar. 23. Hike with dogs. Hike/Walk on Ben Utter trail. L Bonnie England, CL Leslie Kelleter , CL Russ Miller , reg/w Bonnie England (bonniedune@aol.com)

Sat., Mar. 23. North South Trail segment #4. (new) Meet at Shady Acres Restaurant on Route 6 (164 Danielson Pike, Foster) at 9 am to spot cars. We will drive to the trail head on RT #101 and hike the NST southbound for approx. 7 miles. Bring water, snacks, lunch and orange vest. This section is mostly road walking, no need for heavy hiking boots. Rain or heavy snow will cancel this hike. L Carol Baldwin, CL Pam Hill , reg/w Carol Baldwin (ctbaldwin36@yahoo.com)

Sun., Mar. 24. Tippecansett Trail hike. (new) Sponsored by Young Members. Come hike the whole Tippecansett Trail - 10.5 miles! We will meet at Camp Yawgoo BSA, then shuttle to the start at Stepstone Falls in Exeter. We then hike back to Camp Yawgoo passing by Tippecansett and Beach Ponds. Bring hiking shoes, water, lunch, and orange! L Corey Mott, CL Tim Bannin (timbannin@gmail.com), reg/w Corey Mott (cwmott08@gmail.com)

Fri., Mar. 22-24. Northern Peaks of the Presidentials Hiking Weekend. Join the leaders as they attempt to summit Mount Adams via the Randolph Path and Spur trails. Group will overnight at one of the RMC high cabins on Saturday (either Crag Camp or Gray Knob). Possible Madison summit attempt on Sunday, conditions permitting. Full winter gear, appropriate fitness level, and significant above-treeline in winter experience required. Limited availability. Cost of $70 covers one night of lodging and breakfast at the Shapleigh Bunk House and one overnight at the cabin. L Bernardo Aumond, CL Scott Sprague (401-934-3103, dadders1954@hotmail.com), reg/w Bernardo Aumond (464 Hanover Street, #6, Boston, MA 02113, 617-335-7684, bdaumond@yahoo.com)

Wed., Mar. 27. Hike and Social, Jamestown. 2-3 mile hike and we'll go to dinner. 6 pm. Jamestown town dock. Get off the couch and join us. Bring a flashlight. L Sidney Wax (401-849-2595, sid_w@yahoo.com)

ADVANCE NOTICES

Sat., Apr. 13. Hike with Dogs. Hike/Walk the J B Hudson trail. L Bonnie England, CL Leslie Kelleter , CL Judy Van Wyk , reg/w Bonnie England (bonniedune@aol.com)

Sat., Apr. 13-14. Wilderness First Aid. Red Cross first aid training is certainly helpful, but when you are in a backwoods situation, you need more. This course will provide the knowledge you will need to deal with medical emergencies when you are more than one hour from medical care. In addition to patient assessment, this course will teach you how to treat immediate life threats, disabling injuries, hypothermia and other environmental hazards, fractures, sprains and more. This is a two day course and will be taught at Camp Hoffman in West Kingston, RI. The course will once again be taught by the outstanding instructors from Stonehearth Outdoor Learning Opportunities (SOLO). Registration for volunteer leaders will begin January 15. Narragansett Chapter leaders will receive a special rate of $60. Registration for all others will begin on February 1, and will cost $115 for Narragansett Chapter members and $165 for all others. The fee covers all instruction and materials and does not include lodging or meals. For registration information, call Linda Pease (351-2234). L Charlie Killam (charlie.killam@gmail.com), reg/w Linda Pease (401-351-2234, linda.pease@cox.net)

Sat., Apr. 27. Leadership Training Workshop. Join us for a one day workshop to develop and practice important skills needed to successfully lead safe and enjoyable chapter activities. Sessions will include Activity Design and Planning, Screening Participants, Leadership Styles, Decision Making, Trailhead Procedures, Managing Your Group, and Accident Scene Management. The skills presented will apply to all chapter activities, and will benefit anyone planning to lead a one day activity, a weekend trip, or maybe something more ambitious. We will split into small groups to make the day highly interactive, giving you the opportunity to benefit directly from the experiences and knowledge of the experienced chapter leaders who will be leading these sessions. Whether you are an experienced leader looking to make your trips run more smoothly, or are interested in becoming a leader, this workshop will give you the skills and confidence you need to lead a chapter activity. The workshop will take place in Chepatchet, RI. Cost for chapter members is $25, and includes refreshments and materials. L Ed Poyer (401-783-6623, EdPoyer@gmail.com), reg/w Bob Tessitore (401-595-5273, bobtess@gmail.com)

Sun., Apr. 28. Hike with dogs. Hike/Walk at Great Swamp with dogs. L Judy Van Wyk (peacefulpeople@yahoo.com), CL Bonnie England , CL Paul Wynn , reg/w Bonnie England (bonniedune@aol.com)

Sat., May. 4. Bear Mtn & Sages Ravine. (new) Hike a section of the Appalachian Trail over CT's highest summit and into beautiful Sages Ravine. Approx 8.5mi/1800ft at a very moderate pace. Route may be adjusted to suit conditions and the group. 3 state views and scenery make this hike feel like Vermont. Early carpool from RI with a late return. Possible dine out afterwards. L John Stevens, L Linda Pease (401-351-2234 7-9 pm weeknights, linda.pease@cox.net), reg/w John Stevens (401-487-2629 7-9pm weeknights, jstevens184@gmail.com)

Sat., May. 11. Hike with dogs. Hike/Walk at Steere Hill, Harmony with dogs. L Bonnie England, CL Judy Van Wyk , CL Russ Miller , reg/w Bonnie England (bonniedune@aol.com)

Sat., May. 11. Annual Spring Fling & New Member Social. Join us for a day filled with fun activities, workshops and food at the beautiful Goddard Park Carousel. This event is open to all current, new and prospective new members. Stay tuned for more details about registering for this awesome day!

Fri., May 17-19. Young Members Camping Weekend. (new) Come join us for a weekend of primitive camping along the Midstate trail, just over the border in MA. Learn about camping gear, and go on daily hikes of up to 12 miles. Boots, tent, camping gear, and 30-degree bag recommended. Very bad weather cancels. We have some gear to lend. This is a nice location with a lean to and tent spaces too! L Scott Disnard (sdizzy@gmail.com)

Sun., May. 19. Hike with dogs. Hike/Walk at Carolina South with dogs. L Bonnie England, CL Paul Wynn , reg/w Bonnie England (bonniedune@aol.com)

Fri., May 24-27. Pemi Wilderness Loop hike. (new) Experienced backpackers only. 2 MPH pace. Participants required to bring their own meals, tents, sleeping pad/bag. L will have filter/stove. Without side trips (North Twin, Galehead, Zealand), trip is about 31.6 Miles, 7,981 feet of climb. Group limited to 6 Participants & 2L's. Parking at Lincoln woods, nighty tent site fees (approx 8$/nt) not included. L Scott Disnard, CL Tammy Daughtery (rain.daugherty@gmail.com), reg/w Scott Disnard (sdizzy@gmail.com)

Fri., Jun. 7-9. Alpine Flowers hike weekend. Enjoy the miniature beauty of alpine blossoms and spectacular views along the Presidential Range. One night at the Shapleigh bunk house, one night at the Lakes of the Clouds Hut. For the experienced mountain hiker with proper equipment. Twelve miles r.t., 6-7 hours per day, 2800 feet of elevation gain at a moderate steady pace. Should be comfortable scrambling rocks with a full pack. $200 includes 2 nights of lodging and 2 breakfasts. L Margie Parsons (401-743-3405, mpkayak@cox.net), CL Bernardo Aumond , reg/w Bernardo Aumond (464 Hanover Street, #6, Boston, MA 02113, 617-335-7684, bdaumond@yahoo.com)

Sat., Jun. 8. Long/Ell/Green Falls Pond Hike. 7 and 1/2 miles of mountain laurel (in bloom if we are lucky) on one of RI's and eastern CT's most beautiful trails. First and last miles strenuous and a bit rough. Early out option for those who want it at 4 1/2 miles. Details to follow. L John M. Stevens (401-487-2629 7-9pm weeknights, jstevens184@gmail.com), CL Maria Earley, CL Linda Pease

Sat., Jun. 8. Hike with dogs. Hike/Walk at George Washington mgmt area. L Bonnie England, CL Russ Miller , CL Paul Wynn , reg/w Bonnie England (bonniedune@aol.com)

Sat., Jun. 22. Hike with Dogs. Hike/Walk at Browning Woods. L Bonnie England, CL Leslie Kelleter , CL Russ Miller , reg/w Bonnie England (bonniedune@aol.com)

Sat., Aug. 3. Race Brook Falls, Mt Race and Sages Ravine. (new) 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)