Skagit Alpine

Newsletter of the Skagit Alpine Club

November 2006

“To promote the use and prevent the abuse of outdoor recreation areas."

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Skagit Alpine Club - November 2006 Newsletter

Meeting:

We're meeting November 1 in room N-123 (Nelson Hall) at Skagit Valley College at 7:00 pm.  Nelson Hall is located next to the library on the north side of it (this is south of the tennis courts).  This meeting location should work for us through December and hopefully beyond.  Thanks again to Maggie, who helped set this up with the college.

Editor’s Note:

In last month’s newsletter, the report on the issues concerning Blanchard Mountain was not entirely correct.  Follows is Maggie’s clarification:

“It is correct that the present Skagit County Commissioners are blocking any protection for Blanchard Mt.  Anderson and Munks are adamant about logging Blanchard, Dahlstead says he's ‘neutral - give me a plan and I'll look at it’. Harriett Spanel has told us that without the commissioner's support, she cannot bring forth legislation to the State which might protect Blanchard (such as a Land Trust Transfer).  She would be willing to bring forth legislation if and when our commissioners support her effort.  In the newsletter, it stated that ‘if (Ted's) opponent (in the current election) is elected, then state legislation to protect Blanchard is almost certain to be approved’.  This is what is misleading.  Sharon Dillon (Anderson's opponent) stated that she felt Blanchard was precious, and if there is a way, it should be protected.  If elected, I do believe she would be open to figuring out how to save Blanchard....however, it would be the first of many steps....she would be one of three voices and there is no guarantee. BUT, it is a beginning......it would be the first step which has to occur.  I, for one, am hoping for this beginning.”

Secretary‘s Report:

New Officers –

It’s that time of year again! It’s time for the nominating committee, to nominate some clever, fun, and inspired folks to replace the existing officers, who have dutifully held their positions for 2 years.  Chris Danilson, Jeff Smith and Jonathan Frostad were quick to volunteer for the nominating com. (once they realized it meant they would be off the hook for the real work).If you know of someone who may be interested or who is fit for the aforementioned officers’ positions, please let the committee know.  We will vote on new officers at our next meeting.

Mountaineering Class –

Rick Rodgers has volunteered to teach the class. Hurray! He suggested that it would be prudent to line up a protégé for next year’s teacher now. If you would like to learn the ropes about teaching a most excellent mountaineering class from the pros, (or know someone who may fit the bill) please talk to Rick.

Climbing Committee-

The climbing committee will meet from 6-7pm (one hour before the next SAC meeting at the same location) to discuss the upcoming mountaineering class. If you are interested in helping out or have ideas about how to improve the class, be there!

Financial Report-

Treasurer Jill Youde reported $4700 in our coffers.  How to spend it?  We will discuss ideas at our next meeting.  Wade put forth a proposal that the club rent lodging for a winter outing in the Winthrop area. If you have some alluring suggestions bring them to the next meeting or speak with an officer.

Programs-

John Seehorn is looking for presenters and presentations for SAC programs. If you have a slideshow of a trip or climb that you would share, please contact John.

Program:

Come see John Seehorn’s slide show from his vacation to Australia! 

President’s Message:

Voting for the new officers (President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary) will occur at the beginning of the meeting.  The election committee will be presenting their nominations and other members may nominate someone or offer their own service for one of the positions.  The new officers will be installed at the December meeting.

Officers:

President - Wade Bessett 770-0250 bessettw@hotmail.com

Vice President - Jenny Baker baker_1240@yahoo.com

Treasurer - Jill Youde drjillo@yahoo.com

Secretary - Laurie Sherman shermanpt@verizon.net

Newsletter - Corrina Marote corrina.marote@gmail.com

Webmaster - Steve Trent smacktrent@hotmail.com

Programs - John Seehorn jseehorn@hotmail.com

Lookout - John and Marie Erbstoeszer erbst@cnw.com