The Gansett Gazette

February-March
2015

Chapter Leadership Roster

Chapter Chair-Bob Tessitore
Chapter Vice-Chair-vacant
Secretary-Debra Huntington
Treasurer-Bill Rafferty
Membership Chair-Gregg O'Brien
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-Kerri Green and Colleen Quattromani
Technical Climbing Subchair-Peter Barlow
Flatwater Paddling Subchair-Linda Pease
Sea Kayaking Subchair-Michael Krabach
Skiing Co-Subchairs-Ann Piascik and Steve Harrington
Young Members Subchair-Scott Disnard
Family Outings Subchair-Debbie Mitchell
Webmaster/Photographer-Mike Krabach
Publicist-Shannon Kelley

Volunteer Positions Still Open

The chapter still needs the position of vice Chair to be filled for next year. This position has the possibility of being a two year position. Information on the duties are available here. If any member wishes to volunteer for this important leadership position, or need information on the position, please contact our Chair Bob Tessitore.

The webmaster has for several years been looking for a assistant. Several potential volunteers have stepped forward but other commitments have taken priority. If any member has, even limited technical skills, and wants to help please contact the webmaster.

We also have other volunteer positions open. Check out our volunteer page for something you might consider.

Winter Hiking Conditions

Considering the lack of serious snowfall in Rhode Island so far, I don't need to mention snowshoeing at this time. But ice is a different story. When hiking locally, and up north, you may be required to have some type of ice creepers, or traction devices. Read our suggestions in the Snow Resources page and the Northern Hiking page. We also have a web page on winter gear and suggestions that was distributed on our winter gear workshop.

Also if hiking in any area that allows hunting (pretty much most of western RI), check out the RI State regulations on wearing blaze orange on your body. The requirements are in force from September through February, and even some weeks in April and May.

Cross Country Skiing

There may be some significant snowfall in RI this year, so those who wish to do a little local XC skiing should consider signing up for the XC skiing email List-Server to get short term notices of local skiing. The most consistent location for skiing is Pulaski Park in northwest RI. When the snow is good, you can also ski in the lower part of the State in Arcadia State lands and in the Great Swamp trails. Maps for both areas are suggested in our hiking resources page. You may also find unofficial notices of skiing in our Message Board, especially after a quick snowfall.

Fall Gathering 2016

The annual Fall Gathering is hosted by each AMC chapter in rotation. Our previous turn was in 2006 and now it our responsibility again in 2016. This event is a large operation and we need volunteers for organizing the event. The chapter will post the timeline for the event planning and hope that we will have enough members volunteering to reduce the work load so a few will not have to do all the work. The chapter needs a chair and at least 3 committee members. Planning begins this Spring. Contact our Chair, Bob Tessitore

ACTIVITIES

Wed., Feb. 4. Hike and Social - East Bay Bike Path - full moon. 2 1/2-3 mile hike and we get together for dinner... Get off the couch and join us. Park 230 Washington Rd, corner of Bradford St, by the church. Nice water views should be nicer in the moonlight. Dress accordingly. Reflective vests advised (there are a few crazy bikers out there). Flashlights optional. Consider traction devices and poles if snowy. Weather permitting. L Jean Josephson (401-245-5523, kayakjmj@yahoo.com)

Sat., Feb. 7. Dog hike- Tillinghast. A 3-4 mile hike with many ups and downs through Land Trust property. Wet areas. Registration required. Hike specifics provided at time of registration. L G. Russell Miller, reg/w Russ Miller (grmiller01@msn.com)

Sat., Feb. 7. Local Hike at Roger Williams Zoo and Planetarium at Museum of Natural History. (new) Conservation event. Walk through R.W. Zoo and observe the animals in winter habitats, get hot chocolate, head to the Museum of Natural History for the 2pm Planetarium show, then grab a late lunch/early dinner. Heavy snow/blizzard conditions cancel. Check website message board or one of the leaders if in doubt about the weather/cancellations.
Dress: appropriate for up to 2 hours walking out-of-doors - weather-proof jacket, boots, hats, mittens, water. Time: 12:00 noon prompt please. Meet: Entrance to Roger Williams Zoo. Cost: Zoo - $7.50, $6:50 seniors, free to Providence Residents with ID. Planetarium and Museum of Natural History $5/$3 seniors. Directions: https://www.rwpzoo.org/153/rates-hours-directions L N. Gregg O'Brien (401-245-0677, goh243@aol.com) CL Sandi Barber (401-467-7881)

Fri., Feb. 6-8. Mt Madison - Intro to treeline hiking. Challenging day hike for winter hikers with some experience looking for an introduction to above treeline hiking. Hike to the summit of Mt Madison by the Valley Way Tr. 8.4 miles, 4,100 ft of elevation gain. Sunday, leaders' choice. Approximate cost $120.00, includes 2 nights lodging, 2 breakfasts, 1 dinner. L Charles Killam (Charlie.Killam@gmail.com) CL Debra Huntington, reg/w Debra Huntington (ddhuntington@gmail.com)

Fri., Feb. 6-8. Cross Country Ski Weekend. Enjoy the charm of a post and beam farm house built in 1796 on the side of Mt. Cardigan, NH. Views of the Gunstock range. Sleeps 14. Ski from the front door if there's snow. If XC conditions aren't good - there's hiking and nearby downhill skiing. 2 nights, 2 hearty breakfasts, 1 full dinner. Bread/PB & J for lunch - you supplement. $100. Register with Linda. Contact Ann for information. L Linda Pease (401-351-2234, linda.pease@cox.net) L Ann Piascik (ap25776@yahoo.com)

Wed., Feb. 11. Hike/social - South Kingstown - bike path. 2-3 mile hike and we go to dinner... Meet at Curtis Corner Middle School and we will walk on the bike path. Get off the couch and join us. 6 pm. Bring a flashlight. L Susan Boland (401-556-3926, sboland3@verizon.net)

Fri., Feb. 13-16. XC ski trip President's w/e, North Conway, NH. (new) Stay in private ski club in North Conway. Close access to town. 4 cross country areas within a 10 to 25 minute drive or choose downhill skiing (3 areas within a 20 minute drive, one a mile away). Hiking is also an option! Pinkham Notch, and Crawford Notch and all they offer are within a 25 minute drive as well. Stay in a unique 30 room, 140 year old Victorian, which was an Inn for 100 years. Lodging 2-4 to a room, bunk bed style. 2 nights, 2 bkfasts, dinner $75. 3 nights $105. Limited to 12. L Marcie Madsen (401-364-6538, marciem18@verizon.net)

Sat., Feb. 14. Introduction to Cross Country Skiing. (Canceled due to extreme weather, will be rescheduled.) 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 carpooling 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 (401-789-8331 7 PM - 9 PM, christopher.shafer@dem.ri.gov) L Mark Dennen (401-354-9377, zenmartialartist@yahoo.com)

Wed., Feb. 18. Hike/social - Garden City, Cranston. 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. Route will be dependent on snow conditions. Bring a flashlight, and dress for conditions and visibility. L Sidney Wax (401-849-2595, sid_w@yahoo.com)

Sat., Feb. 21. Mt. Holyoke and the Seven Sisters hike. Let's see what Mt. Holyoke and the Seven Sisters are like without fall colors! Numerous ups and downs to tackle. Must be in good physical condition and an experienced winter hiker with full winter gear. About a 6.5 mile hike requiring a car spot. Location: Mt. Holyoke Range site and map. L Rebecca Swagger, L Stephen Harrison (hikersteve@cox.net), reg/w Rebecca Swagger (rebeccaswagger@hotmail.com)

Sat., Feb. 21-22. Ice Climbing -- Smuggler's Notch, VT. -->Designed for experienced ice and 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 (401-871-0552, freeeclimb@aol.com) CL Steve Paolantonio (stevep780@aol.com)

Sat., Feb. 21. Introduction to Cross Country Skiing. (a rescheduled trip) 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 ($11) and ski rentals ($14) available on site. Dress in layers and bring water, snacks, and lunch. Meet in morning for carpooling 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.). For meeting time and confirmation of trip contact L. Mark Dennen (401-354-9377, 401-726-2773 ,zenmartialartist@gmail.com), CL Ann Piascik

Wed., Feb. 25. Hike and Social - Jamestown. (new) 2 1/2 - 3 mile hike and we go to dinner. Get off the couch and join us. Meet at Jamestown Dock, 6 pm. Bring flashlight, warm clothes, etc. Rain/snow cancels. L Thomas Freeman (401-338-2250, hotdealtom50@cox.net)

Fri., Feb. 27-Mar. 1. Step-by-Step Winter Day hiking Weekend. Enjoy excellent views of the Presidential Range from a modest peak. For those in good condition wishing to gain winter below tree line experience. Limited supply of snowshoes, crampons and micro-spikes available for rent. Share lodging and meals with Mt. Washington hikers. L Denise Poyer (denisepoyer@gmail.com) CL Margie Parsons , reg/w Denise Poyer

Fri., Feb. 27-Mar. 1. Mt. Washington Day hiking Weekend. Enjoy spectacular views from the top of New England. For those in good condition with winter experience and full winter gear. Long day possible. Alternate hikes based on conditions. Share lodging and meals with moderate day hikers. L Ed Poyer (401-783-6623 before 9 PM, edpoyer@gmail.com) CL Mike McGuigan

Sat., Feb. 28. Dog hike - Browning. A 3 mile easy walk through the woods on Land Trust property in South Kingstown. Registration required. Hike specifics provided at time of registration. L Bonnie England, reg/w Bonnie England (bonniedune@aol.com)

Wed., Mar. 4. Hike/social Newport: Cliff Walk in the moonlight. 2 1/2-3 mile hike and we will go to dinner. Get off the couch and join us. Meet at CVS on Bellevue, to leave at 6:00. This is our last chance this season to see the Cliff Walk under the full moon, in early evening, as next week begins daylight savings. L Sidney Wax (401-849-2595, sid_w@yahoo.com)

Fri., Mar. 6-8. Mt Passaconaway Weekend. Day hike to Mt Passaconoaway by the Oliverian Brook Trail. 10.2 miles with 2,800 ft of elevation gain. Challenging, all day hike for experienced, well-conditioned winter hikers. Sunday, leaders' choice. Approximate cost $90.00, includes 2 nights lodging, 2 breakfasts and 1 dinner. L Charles Killam (Charlie.Killam@gmail.com) CL Elise Hedglen, reg/w Elise Hedglen (ehedglen@yahoo.com)

Sat., Mar. 14. Mt. Holyoke and the Seven Sisters hike. (new) Let's see what Mt. Holyoke and the Seven Sisters are like without fall colors! Numerous ups and downs to tackle. Must be in good physical condition and an experienced winter hiker with full winter gear. About a 6.5 mile hike requiring a car spot. Meet at Lincoln Mall McDonald's parking lot at 6:00am for CPL to trailhead. Possible dinner out on way back (at own cost). L Rebecca Swagger, L Stephen Harrison (hikersteve@cox.net), reg/w Rebecca Swagger (rebeccaswagger@hotmail.com)

Mon., Mar. 16. Local Hikes Spring Meeting. (new) Meeting at Cranston Central Library (6PM to 7:45 PM) located at 140 Sockanosset Crass Road. Near REI and Garden City Mall. Meeting is for present and prospective leaders and enthusiastic participants ... all are welcome. Lets get together and make plans to get AMC Narragansett outside and having fun right here in our own backyard in RI. Refreshments will be served. L Colleen Quattromani (cqkayaker@aol.com) L Kerri Green (kegreslp@gmail.com)

Wed., Mar. 18. Hike and Social, Providence. (new) 2 1/2 - 3 mile hike and we go to dinner. Get off the couch and join us. Meet at 6 pm at the Gazebo on South Water Street. L Janet Harris (401-272-6772, harris.janet90@gmail.com)

Sat., Mar. 21. Mt. Wachusett Day Hike. (new) 5-6 mile slow to moderately paced hike with ups and downs. Winter gear required including traction devices and or snow shoes depending on conditions. Bring lunch, snacks and lots of water and layers appropriate for the weather. Carpool from northern RI. L John Stevens (401-487-2629 7-9pm weeknights, jstevens184@gmail.com) CL Kerri Green, reg/w Kerri Green (kegreslp@gmail.com)

Fri., Mar. 20-22. East Osceola Weekend. Moderate day hike to the summit of East Osceola (and maybe Osceola) for new winter hikers and other winter hikers looking for a moderate winter hike. 6 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 $120.00, includes 2 nights lodging, 2 breakfasts and 1 dinner. L Charles Killam (Charlie.Killam@gmail.com) CL Bob Janus, reg/w Bob Janus (janus68@cox.net)

Wed., Mar. 25. Hike/social - Newport Harbor walk. (new) 2-3 mile hike and then we go out to eat. Get off the couch and join us. We will meet near the baseball field on Wellington Ave, 6 PM, and then follow the Harbor Walk signs along Thames piers and stores. L Thomas Freeman (401-338-2250, hotdealtom50@cox.net)

ADVANCE NOTICES

Sat., Apr. 4 & Oct. 31. Top-Rope Set-Up Class. (new) This is an approximately four-hour course designed to teach gym climbers, or those with some experience climbing, how to safely set-up a top-rope outdoors using natural protection. The course will be taught on an ad hoc basis and arranged at the convenience of the instructor. This instruction is the same curriclum that is taught in the Beginning AMC classes held each Spring but covers just top-rope set-up. It is designed for those who do not want to go on any further in climbing than top-roping. Fee: $20 adult member, $30 adult non- member. L Brian Phillips (401-218-3475, risouthcounty@gmail.com)

Sat., Apr. 4 & Oct. 31. Sport Climbing Class. (new) This is an approximately four-hour course designed to teach those with some experience climbing, how to safely lead and lower from a sport climb. The course will be taught on an ad hoc basis and arranged at the convenience of the instructor. Fee: $20 adult member, $30 adult non- member. L Brian Phillips (401-218-3475, risouthcounty@gmail.com)

Sat., Apr. 11. Beginner Rock Climbing Course: April 11, 18. Course consists of two progressive classes of instruction and is intended for beginning climbers and gym climbers who want to make the transition to the outdoors. Classes are held at nearby CT crags. Course participants must be 18-years old or 15-years old if accompanied by a parent/guardian. Fee for 2-day course: AMC Member $60, Nonmember $100. Student Discount, AMC Member $40, Non Member $80. Register early as these classes fill quickly. L Peter Barlow (860-675-3772, freeeclimb@aol.com) CL Brian Phillips (risouthcounty@gmail.com)

Sat., Apr. 18-19. 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 the Kettle Pond Visitors Center in Charlestown, RI. The course will once again be taught by the outstanding instructors from Stonehearth Outdoor Learning Opportunities (SOLO). Narragansett Chapter leaders will receive a special rate of $25. Cost for Narragansett Chapter members is $95 and cost for non-members is $165. The fee covers all instruction and materials and does not include lodging or meals. For registration information, contact Linda Pease. L Charlie Killam (charlie.killam@gmail.com), reg/w Linda Pease (401-351-2234, linda.pease@cox.net)

Sat., May. 2. Intermediate Rock Climbing Course: Sat - May 2 & May 9. Course consists of two progressive classes (May 2 & May 9) of instruction and is intended for intermediate climbers or those who took the beginner class. Classes are held at nearby CT crags. Course participants must be 18-years old or 15-years old if accompanied by a parent/guardian. Fee for 2-day course: AMC Member $60, Nonmember $100. College Student Discount, AMC Member $40, Non Member $80. Register early as these classes fill quickly. L Peter Barlow (860-675-3772, freeeclimb@aol.com) CL Brian Phillips (risouthcounty@gmail.com)

Sat., May. 16. Big River Conservation Flat Water Paddle, Coventry. (new) Explore this winding, scenic, marshy river. Then paddle under Rt. 95 into a totally different habitat and waterway on the same river. Escape civilization and expect bird life. For rentals, call Steve Morra at 401-231-5365. L Sandra Barber (401-467-7881 Before 8 pm), L Steve Harrington (401-434-3409 Before 8 pm, sjhep1@hotmail.com)

Mon., May. 25. Twisty, Scenic Great Swamp Paddle (7 3/4 mi). (new) Abundant wildlife. You'll think that you're co-starring in a remake of The African Queen. Be forewarned: lots of poison ivy (gloves, long sleeves recommended). Good boat handling skills required. No sea kayaks. Bring water, lunch, bug spray and sunscreen. L Sandra Barber, L Steve Harrington, Reg/w Steve Harrington(401-434-3409 before 8 pm, sjhep1@hotmail.com)

Sat., May. 30. Spring Multi-Activity Gathering (new) Save this date for our Spring Multi-Activity Gathering. It will be held at the Haines Memorial State Park, Barrington, RI. More details will be provided soon. Rain date is Sunday 31.

Fri., Jun. 5-7. Alpine Flowers Hike. Enjoy the miniature beauty of alpine blossoms and spectacular views along the Presidential Ridge. One night Highland Center, one night Lakes of the Clouds Hut. For 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 backpack. $225 includes Highland Center and hut lodging, one dinner and 2 breakfasts. L Margie Parsons, CL Elise Hedglen (401-595-8385) ehedglen@yahoo.com, reg/w Margie Parsons 401-743-3405, mpkayak@cox.net)

Sat., Jun. 6-7. Rock Climbing - Gunks. (new) Climbers capable of 5.6 routes or better. Trip size may be limited due to leader to second ratio. L Greta Cottrell (Gretawyoming@aol.com) CL Ken Hamel (kenskibike@cox.net)

Sat., Jul. 11-12. Rock Climbing, Cathedral and Whitehorse Ledges, NH. (new) Climbers comfortable on 5.7 routes or better. Participation determined by the number of leaders to seconds, stay at ski club, dinner Saturday cost-share pizza. Reg/w leader to get specific trip information. L Peter Barlow (860-675-3772, freeeclimb@aol.com) CL Joe Vaglio (jvvaglio@gmail.com)

Sat., Aug. 1-2. Rock Climbing - Rumney. (new) Climbers comfortable on 5.8 routes or better, stay at local hostel. Dinner at an après climb restaurant or cost share BBQ. L Kenneth Hamel (kenskibike@cox.net) CL Greta Cottrell (Gretawyoming@aol.com)

Sat., Sep. 12-13. Rock Climbing - Cannon. (new) Climbers comfortable on 5.8 routes or better, camping is at a private campground we have arranged. Dinner is catered. L Kevin Sweeney (203-520-9546, sween8704@yahoo.com) CL Ken Hamel (bikeskiboy@hotmail.com)

Sat., Oct. 3-4. Rock Climbing - Gunks. (new) 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) CL Jeannine Peterson (surnurse@yahoo.com)