The Gansett Gazette

October-November
2016

Chapter Leadership Roster

Chapter Chair-Russ Miller
Chapter Vice-Chair-Barbara Flagg
Secretary-Debra Huntington
Treasurer-Matt Putnam
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
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-Chris Josephson
Family Outings Subchair-Debbie Mitchell
Webmaster/Photographer-Mike Krabach
Publicist-Shannon Kelley
Archivist-Kerry Robinson

Narragansett Chapter Annual Meeting
November 19th

Our Annual meeting was held on Saturday November 19th at the Save the Bay facility. Our featured speaker this year was Garry Harrington. The Chapter's major awards, as described below, are also presented as this 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. The award went this year 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. The award went this year to Jean Marie Josephson.

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 this year went to Jerry Bernardini.

ACTIVITIES

Sat., Dec. 3. Browning Woods Farm Trail- Family Hike. Come join the South Kingstown Land Trust as we hike an easy 3-mile lollipop loop through what was once the colonial Browning Farm. The trail will take us through some wooded uplands, gorgeous stone walls, and the remains of the Browning homestead (erected c.1718). The trailhead is on Shannock Rd at Moraine Ct., in South Kingstown, RI. This is a family hike, so kids and leashed dogs are welcome! L Cesare Mitrano (401-789-8731 5:00-8:00pm, no calls after 8pm, cmitrano@aol.com)

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. 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. Introduction to Cross Country Skiing, Carlisle, MA.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)

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)

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)

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. Register with co-leader Jim Swanberg. L Charles Killam (Charlie.Killam@gmail.com) CL Jim Swanberg, reg/w Jim Swanberg (jes195@msn.com)

ADVANCE NOTICES

Fri., Feb. 10-12. White Mountain Winter Step-by-Step Hiking Weekend. Join us for 2 days of winter hiking near Crawford Notch, NH. This trip is suitable for fit, three season hikers who want to experience hiking winter peaks. It is also opened to more experienced winter hikers who are looking for a moderate hike at a moderate pace. Saturday's hike will be below treeline with some steep sections. Possible peaks include Mt. Waumbek (7.2 miles, 2,650' elevation gain, 6:10 book time) or Mts. Field and Tom (7 miles, 3,000' elevation gain, 6:00 hours book time). Sunday's hike will be based on group's ambitions. Required equipment includes waterproof, insulated winter boots, snowshoes, crampons or light traction and headlamp. Snowshoes, crampons, light traction and poles available for rent by prior arrangement. 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. Plan to arrive by 10 PM Friday evening. You will not be registered until the leader receives your check. L Ed Poyer (401-783-6623 before 9 PM, EdPoyer@gmail.com) CL Bob Janus

Sat., Feb. 11-12. Ice Climbing Stowe, VT. Designed for experienced rock climber's who have attended the rock courses or have equivalent experience. Must have, or rent, own gear. Also open to others who want to ski, snow shoe, or winter hike. Cost share lodging. Register with Leader. L Joseph Vaglio, CL Peter Barlow (freeeclimb@aol.com), reg/w Joe Vaglio (jvvaglio@gmail.com)

Fri., Feb. 24-26. 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. 8.8 miles, 3,850 ft of elevation gain, all day hike. Sunday, leader's choice For well conditioned, experienced winter hikers. Approximate cost $125.00, includes 2 nights lodging, 1 dinner, 2 breakfasts. L Charles Killam (Charlie.Killam@gmail.com) CL Elise Hedglen, reg/w Elise Hedglen (ehedglen@yahoo.com)

Sat., Mar. 4. Belknap Range Winter Day Hike. This is a 6.5 mile hike to 3 peaks at the southern end of New Hampshire's Lake Winnipesaukee. Summit features include stone furniture, a fire tower, and a ski slope. The event is for beginner/intermediate winter hikers. Full winter gear is required, but micro-spikes or trail crampons are acceptable in lieu of regular crampons. All participants will travel in a group car pool leaving from and returning to a location near Providence, Rhode Island. An early start is required. There will possibly be a post-hike dinner stop. L Robert Janus (Janus68@cox.net) CL Steve Harrison

Sat., Apr. 22-23. Wilderness First Aid, South Kingstown Land Trust Barn 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 South Kingstown Land Trust Barn in South Kingstown, 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. L Charlie Killam (charlie.killam@gmail.com), reg/w Elise Hedglen (NarLeadership@gmail.com)

Fri., May 19-22. High Peaks of the Pemigewasset. The remote Pemigewasset peaks are made more accessible (and fun) on this three night trip. Join us for a mid-spring hike to AMC's Galehead Hut before the crowds begin and maybe before the snow is all gone. This time of the year the hut is on caretaker basis, meaning we will carry in our own sleeping bags and all our food. Possible peaks include Galehead, South Twin, Mt. Bond and West Bond. The $200 fee includes 1 night at Shapleigh Hostel, 2 nights at Galehead Hut, 3 breakfasts and 2 dinners. This trip is suitable for fit, experienced three season hikers. Friday night we meet at Shapleigh Hostel. Saturday morning after breakfast at the Highland Center we will divide up group food and gear, then hike to Galehead Hut for a two night stay. Sunday, as weather and conditions permit, we will hike to South Twin, Guyot, Bond and possibly West Bond. Monday we hike out. Expect to have a fairly heavy pack on the hike in. The leaders will provide the breakfasts and dinners to be carried and cooked by the group at the hut. Participants provide their own lunches and snacks. Also expect rugged conditions and a long day on Sunday. Some years we have encountered heavy snow on the trails, requiring at least light traction. A complete list of required equipment will be supplied upon request. Your check is needed to reserve your spot. L Denise Poyer (denisepoyer@gmail.com) CL Ed Poyer (EdPoyer@gmail.com)

Thu., Jun. 8-11. Alpine Flowers Weekend, NH. Enjoy the miniature beauty of the alpine blossoms below the summit of Mt. Washington, with spectacular views along the Presidential Ridge. Visit a mountain bog and lake while spending 2 nights at Lakes of the Clouds Hut. 17 miles RT, with 3800 feet of elevation gain at a moderate, steady pace, for experienced mountain hikers with proper equipment. Some very steep sections, should be comfortable scrambling rocks with a full backpack. Estimated cost $338 per person, includes 3 nights lodging, 2 dinners and 3 breakfasts, with 1 night lodging at Shapleigh Bunkhouse and 2 nights at Lakes of the Clouds Hut. Full deposit required, non-refundable after May 10. L Margie Parsons, CL Elise Hedglen (ehedglen@yahoo.com), reg/w Margie Parsons (mpkayak@cox.net)