Minutes for OH Steering Committee Meeting, 4/26/16

Minutes for

OH Steering Committee Meeting,

April 26, 2016

 

Present: Josh Alper, Nat Balch, Bill Barrett, Doug Hotchkiss, Ari Ofsevit, Stroker Rogovin, Elizabeth Seabury, James Wrigley.

 1)       Treasurer’s Report (Stroker for Moose)

Money is tracking similar to prior years. Insurance for the year has been paid, along with a few years-worth of website fees.

 

2)         Cabin (Ari Ofsevit & Stroker)

     At the last meeting, the Steering Committee approved issuing annual family passes for cabin use, at $150, to compliment the individual passes approved earlier ($75). Passes are good for one calendar year.

Cabin road will receive some attention this year, specifically the creation of a parking space at the top of the road near the bridge. Caretaker Mike Waddell is coordinating the work.

With help from Eric Gotthold, young OH have been encouraged to submit photos of notable OH for hanging in the cabin. John Thompson to assist, as needed.

Cabin signage is in need of improvement. Ari Ofsevit agreed to make recommendations regarding standardizing cabin rules and info at the PNC front desk, on our website, on the Cabin key fob, and on signage at the Cabin itself.   Info should be updated so it’s consistent, clear, and concise.   “Long form” info can stay over the wood bin (updated), but other postings should be limited to the few locations mentioned above, on the theory that the greater the number of signs, the less people will read them, and the less information actually gets communicated.

                       

3)         Gala (Stroker for Beth Weick)

Toben Traver and Betsy Cook will represent the OHA on 5/25. Beth Weick will help them update the annual letter we distribute introducing incoming croo to the OHA.

 

4)         Spring Reunion, 5/14 (Stroker)

Due to a death in the family, John Thompson is unable to assist with reunion planning and management. Doug Hotchkiss to contact Mike Waddell, Richard Stetson, and John Lamanna to discuss logistics.

A Steering Committee meeting will convene at the Cabin at 11 AM for our northcountry members who can’t always make it to Portland, Portsmouth, Boston or other locations.   Doug Hotchkiss will preside.

 

5)         Fallfest, 11/5 (Doug H. & Stroker)

Current croo member Grace Pezella will be this year’s featured speaker, presenting her undergraduate research on the history of women in the huts. We’ll be looking to Grace and other Y-OH and current croo to help spread the word about this fantastic program!

Recently deceased OH Charlie Kellogg will receive a posthumous OH Honorary Award, to be presented by Doug Hotchkiss, with help from Andy Cook, Josh Alper, Roger Foster, and Al Koop. Charlie’s family has been invited to attend as guests of the OHA.

Bill Barrett has agreed to oversee a silent auction of Greenleaf croo photos, featuring croos from the 30s into the 90s. We discussed the possibility of hosting an auction on the OHA website, but the software didn’t seem practical. Bill will be posting photos on the website with help from webmaster Tom Kelleher, and solicit bids leading up to, and including Fallfest, where top bidders will be awarded their purchases.

Video footage of last summer’s milestone hut anniversaries (Mizpah 50^th and Lakes 100^th) is being edited by David Huntley and will be available for viewing at Fallfest.

 

6)         Hut System Update (James Wrigley)

Mizpah is currently undergoing renovation, with a dormer added on the roof to accommodate a relocated, larger croo room. New space will be above some guest space, but CC is installing soundproofing. (Guess we’ll see about that!) Downstairs bunkrooms are being refurbished with LED Lighting and more headroom for every bunk.

Greenleaf will enjoy a 7^th croo member this year, and Lakes croo will now number 11, making the hut experience more enjoyable for croo and public alike. Increased OTC sales are expected to cover the cost of these additional positions, making them revenue neutral.

Whitney Brown (Assistant Hutmaster at Madison for summer 2015 and Hutmaster for fall) has been hired as a field assistant for summer and fall 2016 to assist James Wrigley and Eric Gotthold

The plan to add a “9^th hut” in Crawford Notch is currently “in stasis,” with NH Fish and Game and the USFS officially opposing the proposal. Stay tuned.

 

7)         OH Hut Ambassador Program (Josh)

So far, we have four takers for next summer, covering Lonesome, Greenleaf, Carter, and Madison. The OH Hut Ambassador program entitles each participant and a guest to a free night in a hut in exchange for socializing with the croo, introducing them to the OHA, and generally making yourself useful. One of the best deals we offer our membership. Sign up soon! Contact OH Josh Alper or Huts Manager James Wrigley.

 

8)         Lonesome Croo Photo Project (Stroker for Beth Eisenhower)

Stroker to check with Beth Eisenhower to see if she has Lonesome croo rosters for outreach to collect photos and donations.

 

9)         Resuscitator (Stroker for Beth Weick)

     While Will Murray is fulfilling some academic requirements, Caroline Santinelli will be helping Beth with gormings and copy editing.   The Spring Resuscitator should be ready for publication 5/1.

 

10)       OH Family Picnic (Elizabeth Seabury and Nat Balch)

In response to the Steering Committee’s search for family- and kid-friendly events, Liz and Nat narrowed a long list of good options down to two recommendations: a picnic at Pawtuckaway Park, NH, or a similar event at Drumlin Farm, Lincoln, MA. Pawtuckaway won the vote, for its waterfront activities, handy location, and all-round fun factor. Parents will be encouraged to monitor younger children when near the water. Event is scheduled for 12 noon, August 27^th (rain date the following day). Picnic will be pot-luck, so bring something yummy to share. Organizers may offer a scavenger hunt for the kids, but otherwise the emphasis will be on keeping things simple and fun—a good opportunity to catch up with other OH in a relaxing, outdoor setting suitable for children and families (others welcome too!)

 

11)       Website (Tom Kelleher)

No report.

 

12)       New & Other Bidness

     Oktoberfest will be held 10/8 – 9.

Ari Ofsevit suggested sponsoring a trail running event the morning of 11/5, to coincide with Fallfest later that day. The Huts Hustle will be a 10K trail run up the Halls Ledge Trail and down the Hutman’s Trail to the Cabin. Hot chili will be provided following the race. Members of the RMC and Trail Crew will also be invited, and Ari estimates the race might draw 10 – 20 participants. No fee. Older OH have offered to provide logistical support.

 

13)       Date for Next Steering Committee Meeting: June 14^th, venue TBD.

 

Stroker

5/3/16

Minutes for OH Steering Committee Meeting 3/15/16

Minutes for

OH Steering Committee Meeting,

March 15, 2016

 

Meeting held at Lui Lui, Nashua, NH.

 

Present: Bill Barrett, Eric Gotthold, Tom Kelleher, Stoker Rogovin, Doug Shaffer, Ryan Smith, Mike Waddell.

 1)Treasurer’s Report (Stroker for Moose)

Total income to date for 2016 is 10% over 2015. This should be balanced by extra anticipated outlays, including $1K or so for improvements to the Cabin road and another $3K+ for other property work. To date, we’ve received 307 dues payments by mail (same as this time last year) and 19 payments by PayPal (ahead of 2015 by 5). Donations are up a healthy 19% overall, with Croo Photo Project donations up a whopping 91%, largely owing to a very generous contribution from Dave Porter.

 

2)         Cabin (Mike Waddell, Tom Kelleher, & Stroker)

                    To date, we’ve sold 4 $75 season passes (good for one person). The Steering Committee discussed and approved offering a $150 Season Pass valid for families, effective immediately. Tom Kelleher will post info on both passes on the website.

As mentioned in the Treasurer’s Report, the upper section of the road just below the bridge to the Gervais property will be improved to provide parking and turn around space. Mike Waddell spoke with the Gervais and obtained permission to do the work (on their property). Further, the Gervais are on record as having no immediate plans to sell the property.

Cabin access road will probably need a major facelift in 5 years (Mike W’s assessment).

Eric Gotthold reported that he expects to assist current croo next summer with adding some recent croo photos to those already on the walls. Plenty of room for more pics.

Building on prior discussions, the Committee agreed that signage at the Cabin and related sites (PNC front desk, website, Cabin interior, and Cabin key fob) should be updated so info is consistent, clear, and concise.   “Long form” info can stay over the wood bin, but other postings should be limited to the few locations mentioned above, on the theory that the greater the number of signs, the less people will read them, and the less information actually gets communicated. Stroker to ask Ari if he’d be willing to help spearhead signage improvements.

                       

3)         Gala (Stroker for Beth Weick)

Thanks to Beth Weick, Toben Traver and Betsy Cook will represent the OHA at this years Gala, on 5/25. Huts management is enthusiastic about our reps.

 

4)         Spring Reunion, 5/14 (Mike Waddell)

Stetsons to purchase and manage the food, John Thompson to manage the money, John Lamanna to manage the clams, and Mike Waddell to manage John Lamanna. Others will hopefully manage to get a tan and some good photos.

After floating the idea for some years now, the Committee agreed to hold a Steering Committee meeting the morning of Spring Reunion, 11 AM, so local OH—and those planning to attend the event anyway—can attend and participate. Meeting will coincide with lunch—if there’s food, that makes it a party.

 

5)         Fallfest, 11/5 (Stroker, Bill Barrett, Tom Kelleher)

Stroker has attempted to contact Rebecca Oreskes and Grace Pezella to see if either wants to be our featured after-dinner speaker at Fallfest. No replies as yet, but Stroker will persist. Becky Fullerton and Catherine Amidon have also both been mentioned as good candidates.

At the last meeting, Charlie Kellogg was voted to receive a posthumous OH Honorary award. Doug Hotchkiss was suggested as the most capable OH to present this recognition and make the necessary arrangements for Chuck’s family to attend.

Some years back, the first round of hut croo photos at Greenleaf were removed due to minor blemishes and replaced with newer copies. The old photos are grouped by decade and will be available for purchase by our members through an online auction. Tom Kelleher to investigate the feasibility of hosting the auction through the OHA website. Bill Barrett to coordinate the process of labeling, promoting, and producing the auction. Decades available are 30s and 40s (both in one panel), 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s. Auction to conclude before Fallfest, where photo panels can be picked up by auction winners (or winners can have panels shipped, for cost of postage.)

Dave Huntley to begin editing last year’s Lakes and Mizpah hut anniversary video footage in April, for debut screening at Fallfest and hopefully posting online sooner.

 

6)         Hut System Update (Eric Gotthold)

Major interior rehab of Mizpah to begin next week. Croo room will be moved to the 3^rd floor, with an emergency exit provided and a dormer added to the rear roof. Bunks will be upgraded with LED lighting and improved ladders. Space for information volunteers will go in attic.

Hiring of next sumer’s croo recently completed with 17 new hires selected from 195 applicants. Lakes croo now numbers 11 and Greenleaf 7.

 

7)         OH Hut Ambassador Program (Stroker for Josh)

OH currently signed up to visit huts include Josh (Carter), Stroker (Lonesome), and Maria (nee Lord) Van Dusen (Galehead). Plenty of openings for any OH who want to enjoy a free night at a hut for you and a friend. One of the best deals we offer our membership. Contact Josh Alper, Stroker, or James Wrigley for more info.

 

8)         Lonesome Croo Photo Project (Stroker)

Professional obligations required Dave Huntley to relinquish his role organizing the collection of photos and donations to complete the Lonesome hut croo photo collection. Beth Eisenhower has agreed to take up the cause, and welcomes any assistance from Lonesome alum. Beth represents recent croo and is looking for pre-00s Lonesome croo to help get word out and collect photos and cash from earlier croo. Only 4 photos submitted to date!!. Beth to contact Tom Kelleher for assistance accessing Lonesome croo contact info.

 

9)         Resuscitator (Stroker for Beth Weick)

Next edition due out May 1; deadline for submissions 4/15. Young OH are particularly encouraged to contribute writing, photos, and ideas.

 

10)       Membership Development (Stroker for Liz Seabury)

Liz and Nat Balch came up with a           long list of suggestions for family-friendly events, to provide social opportunities to OH with young families. Next meeting we hope to pick 1 or 2 events to try out this year or next.

 

11)       Website (Tom Kelleher)

Tom observed that not everyone who’s joined the FB page is an OH, which is the only criteria for membership. Vetting people can be difficult, but admins should try to apply tougher standards to those seeking to join to ensure that only OH are afforded membership.

 

12)       New & Other Bidness

Bill Barrett reported that the Feb 21 – 24 OHA Maine ski trip to Little Lyford Pond and Gorman Chairback Camps was a smashing success, notwithstanding the scarcity of snow. Skiing and hiking were in equal supply. The trip was in memory of Charlie Kellogg. 9 OH attended, including Bill, Josh Alper, Doug Hitchkiss, Andy McLane and wife, Maria Van Dusen and friend, and others. Another trip is already in the works for 2017. Lodges seem in fine shape, and both croos provided excellent service.

Oktoberfest will be 10/8 – 9.

 

13)       Date for Next Steering Committee Meeting: April 26, Josh Alper’s (70 Clark St., Belmont, MA).       Call Stroker for a ride from Alewife Station, end of the Red Line. Josh is also a 5 minute walk from the Belmont commuter rail station. Food and drink provided (at minimal cost).

 

 

Stroker

3/16/16

Old and New Friends Ski and Snowshoe Trip

A small group of geriatric OH (GOH) just completed a three night trip to AMC Little Lyford and Gorman Chairback camps. We lucked out on having just enough snow to get us in and out by ski, foot, and snowshoe.

Am glad to report that the facilities are in great shape with many improvements since our last visit. All the cabins at LLC have new roofs and floors, and the log walls have been re-caulked. The renovated Jim Hamilton lodge has much more dining space as well as a library. Several cabins have been added at GCB with en-suite facilities. The food was the best camp cuisine I have ever tasted.

Fun was had by all and we are planing to return next year.

Submitted by Doug

Minutes for OH Steering Committee Meeting 1/26/16

Minutes for

OH Steering Committee Meeting,

Jan. 26, 2016

 

Present: Josh Alper, Catherine Amidon, Bill Barrett, Peter Church, Peggles Dillon, Beth Eisenhower, Becky Fullerton, Lew Lloyd, Dick Low, Ari Ofsevit, Sheldon Perry, Stroker Rogovin, Elizabeth Seabury, Benny Taylor, John Thompson, Gwen Wilcox, Gordon Witington.

 

• Treasurer’s Report (Stroker for Moose)

Income is closely tracking what it was at this time last year; 48 more dues receipts will match 2015 . $4500 will be required in 21016 for cabin work, including road improvements and repairs.

 

• Cabin (Stroker)

$75 season pass to start 1/1/16.

Road repairs and other work scheduled for 2016 (see above).

Y-OH have been invited to add contemporary photos to those already at the Cabin. Eric Gotthold (Huts Field Assistant) and John Thompson to offer advice and consent, as needed.

Signage could use some updating. Ari Ofsevit (and any other interested parties) to consider improvements in wording and location and report back.

 

3)         Gala (Ari Ofsevit and Stroker)

Beth Wieck recommended having Becky Cook, Toben Traver, and Hillary Burt introduce the OHA to new and returning croo at Gala 2016, in keeping with our policy of increasing participation of Y-OH and “putting a younger face” on the organization.

 

4)         OH Hut Ambassador Program (Josh)

All OH are welcome to visit a hut this summer as an “official” representative of the OHA. OH Ambassadors are entitled to a free overnight for themselves and a guest (blackout nights are Fridays and Saturdays). Purpose of the visits is to introduce ourselves and our organization to current croos and make ourselves useful. Ambassadors are encouraged to make their visits creative and fun; last summer, Gerry Whiting joined the current croo in presenting an evening program for guests around the theme of “Huts: Then and Now.”

 

5)         Fallfest, 11/5 (Stroker)

Plenty of good ideas were floated for speakers for this year’s Fallfest. In keeping with our desire to welcome more Y-OH and women, the following suggestions were made:

• AMC Librarian Becky Fullerton reviewing photos and memorabilia from the OH Archives
• Grace Pezzella talking about her research on women in the huts
• Rebecca and Brown and Catherine Amidon tag-teaming “Women Mountainerering”
• Rebecca Oreskes discussing her White Mountain oral history, “Mountain Voices”
• Hillary Girardi presenting on the French Alps

Final speaker selection to be made at a following meeting.

Charlie Kellogg was nominated and approved to receive a posthumous OH Honorary award.

Greenleaf croo photos (replaced as part of the recent croo photo project) will be auctioned off at Fallfest; Bill Barrett to post photos online in advance.

 

                       

6)         Joe Dodge Award (Bill Barrett and Benny Taylor)

Willy Ashbrook was this year’s OHA nominee but the award was given to Rob Burbank, the AMC’s Director of Media and Public Affairs, for his work getting word of the amazing recreational opportunities of the White Mountains before millions of people.

 

7)         Lonesome Croo Photo Project (Stroker for Dave Huntley)

Dave is still adjusting from relocating his business last summer but plans to turn his attention to soliciting photos and money in February. Beth Eisenhower agreed to help, particularly with younger OH.

 

8)         Resuscitator (Stroker for Beth Weick)

Deadline for the next issue is April 15^th. As ever, we welcome contributions of photos, articles, news, gossip, cartoons, etc., particularly from first-time contributors.

 

9)         Membership Development (Liz Seabury)

After conferring with other OH, including Nat Balch, Liz came up with the following ideas for new OH social events targeted for young families;

• Boston area outdoor events
• Trip to Pawtuckaway State Park (southern NH)
• Small mountain hikes
• Sleepovers at the Cabin
• Trip to Echo Lake Camp or Three Mile Island Camp
• Music event (jam? Family event?)
• Park Picnics
• Car Camping at Dolly Copp

 

11)       Website (Tom Kelleher)

No report.

 

12)       New & Other Bidness

     Doug Hotchkiss and Josh Alper will be hosting a Charlie Kellogg Memorial Ski Trip at Little Lyford and Gorman Chairback Lodges, in Maine, 2/21 – 24. 9 OH signed up to date. Interested parties should contact Josh. Josh to get info to Stroker for posting on Facebook.

Bill Barrett to compose an article on the recent Mizpah 50^th and Lake’s 100^th hut anniversary celebrations for publication in the AMC’s Appalachia Journal.

Dave Huntley to edit video footage shot last summer at the Mizpah and Lakes hut anniversaries. Edits to take place in April and May and should be ready for posting online by summer and “official” screening at Fallfest.

 

13)       OH Archives Tour (Becky Fullerton)

AMC Librarian Becky Fullerton regaled all with a narrated slideshow in the venerable AMC Library, of historic and recent photos of people and places near and dear to OH. Her presentation was all too brief, and but a sampling of the incredible wealth of images, documents, memorabilia and other OH material stored in the AMC Library. Donations may be made through the OHA for the express purpose of furthering work on this wonderful collection, including digitizing papers, photos, films, and other materials to be shared on the web; digitizing hut logs (including croo logs); creating facsimilies of older logs to be kept at the huts; expanding and organizing OH oral histories (not done since the ‘70s); etc. Becky is a consummate professional and great resource for the OHA, and any work we can help her accomplish will have direct benefits for the OHA and our membership. Please speak with Stroker if you’re interested in contributing to this very worthy cause. No amount too small.

 

14)       Date for Next Steering Committee Meeting: March 15, Lui Lui restaurant, Nashua, NH.

 

 

Stroker

2/18/16

 

Y-OH Listening Session, 11/7/15

Y-OH Listening Session, Fallfest 2015, 11/7/2015

Notes by Beth Weick

Fall Reunion

• To increase attendance, a stacked weekend of events make traveling back to the Whites more realistic for Y-OH. For example, a Y-OH night or OH night at a hut (at a discounted rate?) the Friday night before Fall Reunion.
• Younger voices at meeting, some sort of Y-OH presentation as part of annual meeting – for example, have croo/hutmasters from past season recap top ten moments, most meaningful moments, changes that came about that season, etc.

Membership

• Have a non-PayPal option for paying dues online

Networking

• Have a job board on website, or include fields/careers in directory so that folks could search for other OH that might help them with employment, etc.

OH gatherings

• Winter sports day/informal get-togethers throughout winter. How to do this?
• Request volunteer rep from all regions in Resuscitator to coordinate gatherings. Or send an email to all OH in a given area and say “ok, you’re in touch with each other, plan something if you’d like”
• More events at huts, in summer, would be most appealing to Y-OH, more suitable to their schedule.
• Merge Funktion (end of GALA party) and Spring Reunion – interested in cross-generational events, but HiC is not the place Y-OH would prefer to hang out.

Web/Outreach

• Build directory/listserve through the website. Make all OH contact info available online so that folks can use this to organize gatherings.
• Link directory to map on website. If someone wants to organize event of all OH in Boston, can click on Boston, and get a list of all OH in region, for example.
• FYI, croo listings for some past years are incorrect, 2011 & 2013 for example.
• Revamp website – better organization, modern look

End-of-Summer/Fall Parties

• Have recent Y-OH rep rather than folks of the “older guard” as is done with GALA. Use this as an opportunity to push Fall Reunion, Resuscitator submissions, general value of OH, and update contact info for web directory

 

Resuscitator

• Email a reminder before Resuscitator deadline
• Post a reminder of deadline on Facebook
• Include request for contact info to build/correct online directory
• Request representative from each region to be the “fun coordinator”
• Add caretaker listings in Resuscitator (if available in time)

Ambassador Program

• Only some huts visited, but a very positive experience

Cabin

• How to get people to pay? Could make people pay at Pinkham desk when getting key – not something people want to see happen.
• Fresh/more visible/succinct signage at cabin re: paying the fee
• Y-OH pictures on walls of Cabin

Y-OH perception of OH

• Where are the 30- and 40-somethings?
• Making networking options accessible & useful might help to counter the creepy old guy stigma

GALA Presentation

• Funny, positive, memorable – only aspect of OH that leaves a younger feel
• Inclusion of recent OH in GALA training was great, do more of this as applicable.

Y-OH/OH co-mingling opportunities

• Appreciate the brief bond that can offer between croo and OH fill-ins for croo nights/Madfest
• Involve OH/Ambassadors in third/short set – a time when a given croo most needs an extra hand.
• OH help with opening/closing

 

General consensus that having free beer on hand would make anything better.

 

In Attendance: Will Norton, Alana Scannell, Phoebe Howe, Steve Rosenman, Jeff Colt, Katie Schide, Emily Leich, Zak Clare-Salzler, Ace Emerson, Maya von Wodtke, Anna Ready-Campbell, Caroline Santinelli, Becca Waldo, Aslyn Dindorf, Beth Weick

Reaching Millennials: Notes from the AMC Advisors’ Meeting, 11/12/15

Notes from AMC Board of Advisors Meeting, 11/12/15: Millennials

• cluster social activities*
• target events specifically for Y-OH
•  keep it affordable
• sponsor family-oriented events
• maintain an attractive, well functioning website
• appoint Y-OH to leadership roles
• engage Y-OH desire for personal meaning**
• membership doesn’t always lead to engagement, and vice versa***

 

Notes

*          i.e., hold Spring Reunion same weekend as Gala party, discounted Y-OH night in a hut  on the eve of Fallfest, etc.)

**         trail work, newsletter contributions, advocacy?

***       offer events, newsletter, access to social media, etc. to non-members?

Stroker

11/15/15

 

Minutes for OH Steering Committee Meeting, 11/17/15

Minutes for

OH Steering Committee Meeting,

Nov. 17, 2015, Portsmouth, NH.

 

Present: Nat Balch, Bill Barrett, Nathaniel Blauss, Eric Gotthold, Doug Hotchkiss, Tom Kelleher, Ari Ofsevit, Sheldon Perry, Stroker Rogovin, Linus Story, John Thompson, Beth Weick, Gerry Whiting.

 1)      Treasurer’s Report (Stroker for Moose)

Numbers are more or less on track for the year.

 

2)         Cabin (Stroker)

Cabin visitors can now opt for a $75 “annual pass,” which goes on sale 1/1/16 and covers all visits for 2016. Available only to dues paying members ($25/yr.).  The general idea is to encourage the use and enjoyment of the cabin, and hopefully instill a greater sense of “ownership” among more members, particularly Y-OH. Notice to be posted on the website and FB page.

Another topic for discussion was the increased use of the cabin by Pinkham and hut croos for parties. At the suggestion of our caretaker, Mike Waddell, huts management will appoint a point person for each officially sponsored event to make sure the place gets left as found. “Unofficial” spontaneous croo parties will be expected to clean up after themselves, as always. Any large groups planning to use the Cabin are encouraged to use the cabin signup feature on the website, if time allows.

Some folks still freeload, so it’s important for all users to spread the word that the deal is and always has been “pay to stay.” Cabin rates and rules are clearly posted in a number of places at the cabin as well as on line. $5 for 25 and under/$15 for over 25. Cabin fees only pay a fraction of actual operating costs (20% – 30%). Cabin users and all OH visiting the huts are invited to reinforce the message that the cabin is owned and operated by the OHA—a small organization with a small budget. We are NOT the AMC. Good idea to politely introduce this message whenever indicated (e.g., during OH Ambassador visits to the huts, at Gala, in chats with new visitors, etc.).

It was noted that some hut croos donate a portion of their tips to the cabin fund.

 

3)         Nepal Disaster Relief (Stroker for John Gross)

In the wake of the recent earthquakes in Nepal, the Steering Committee voted to support John Gross’s call that disaster relief donations be sent to Rick Wilcox, c/o International Mountain Equipment, N. Conway, NH. Many OH have trekked and worked in Nepal, so this represents a great opportunity to give back to a country in desperate need of outside assistance.

 

4)         Oktoberfest (John Thompson)

Richard and Bridget Stetson headed a small work party of regulars the weekend of October 17th, making sure the Cabin was properly prepared for winter, and that everybody ate more wurst and strudel than is commonly recommended by nutritionists. Another well-run event.

 

5)         Fallfest (Beth Weick)

Slightly smaller crowd than usual, possibly due to no fewer than 4 other major OHA anniversaries and social events in the past year (Spring Reunion/Cabin 75^th, MMVSP 50^th, Mizpah 50^th, Lakes 100^th). A few bunks in the Highland Center were overbooked, but other than that, the event went smoothly; AMC staff have been contacted about working out the bugs going forward. Sheldon Perry kindly offered to manage logistics for Fallfest 2016, as he’s done in recent years.

Many younger attendees retired to the OH Cabin following happy hour, partly to save the cost of dinner and partly to enjoy their own mini-reunion.

Brian Fowler’s featured presentation on White Mtn. geology was well received. No surprise there.

Linus Story awarded Willy Ashbrook the OHA’s highest award, making him an Honorary OH.   Dick Low publicly recognized Bridget Stetson and Joan Low for their significant and continued contributions to producing successful Oktoberfests.

Beth Weick emceed the evening’s many presentations as well as the business meeting. She also hosted a well-attended listening session for Y-OH before the main event, and compiled two pages of detailed, helpful suggestions for attracting more members. These suggestions formed the basis of the conversation on membership outreach that came later in the evening (see agenda item 7).

OHA officers elected to serve for 2016:

President: Stroker Rogovin

Treasurer: John “Moose” Meserve

Secretary: Tom Kelleher

Resuscitator Editor: Beth Weick

Assistant Editor: Will Murray

Members-at-Large: Elizabeth Seabury, Josh Alper, James Wrigley, Lindsay Bourgoine, Ari Ofsevit, Nathaniel Blauss.

 

As always, the Steering Committee welcomes nominations for next year’s officers.

 

6)         Hut System Update (Eric Gotthold)

     New Field Assistant Eric Gotthold introduced himself to the group and gave a brief report. 2015 was the busiest year in the huts yet, breaking the record set just last year. 2016 is poised to be more of the same. New construction projects are scheduled, including renovations at Mizpah. Lonesome and Zealand are now open on a self-service basis.

                       

7)         Y-OH Outreach (Beth Weick, Nathaniel Blauss, Stroker)

A good 90 minutes of the meeting were given to brainstorming ways to make the OHA more attractive to more members, including suggestions recently made by Y-OH and collected by Beth Weick. Other ideas were offered for discussion by Stroker, fresh from an AMC Board of Advisors meeting dedicated to the question of how to attract more millennials to the AMC.   Summaries of ideas from both prior meetings were distributed (and will be made available as appendices to these minutes). Lots of overlap throughout these conversations.

The Steering Committee concluded that the first and most important step the OHA can take to attract more women and younger members is to ensure that they feel welcome and secure. Reports of older OH (both male and female) making inappropriate comments and gestures towards younger OH and current croo are a clear call to educate OH as needed regarding proper behavior—and to intervene swiftly and firmly when required.

We then discussed just who are these target Y-OH. They’re 25 – 35 years old, dislike being labeled, and are passionate about social causes. As “digital natives,” they tend to communicate and organize their lives differently from earlier generations. They have higher expectations for social and professional networking. They expect to receive some content and services for free. They’re less likely to join clubs or plan far ahead, and more likely to meet their social needs through ad hoc, a la carte last-minute arrangements with the aid of the internet. They have limited time and money and so prefer social activities that make good use of both. They enjoy hanging out with other millenials as well as cross-generational activities. Older millennials may be starting families and more concerned with careers and so have different outlooks and needs than their younger peers.

So what does all this mean for the future of the OHA?

It was widely acknowledge that attracting millennials and women is important to sustaining our membership base, and that attracting new members needn’t come at the expense of “the old guard.” This is not a zero-sum game; new blood would in fact create synergies and invigorate the organization for the next 75 years. Many now on the Steering Committee are in their 60s and 70s.

Part of the discussion focused on trying to understand what value Y-OH derive from OH membership (as opposed to merely attending events).

These benefits include:

– use of the Cabin

– professional networking

– socializing (inter- and intra-generational)

– free visits to the huts (Ambassador and Fill-In programs)

– esprit de corps, prestige, historical perspective

 

General steps we can take to deliver:

– zero-tolerance for sexual harassment

– cluster social activities

– more Y-OH in leadership roles

– offer family-oriented events

– keep things affordable

– target some events specifically for younger members

– continue to upgrade our social media and networking     opportunities

– events accessible by public transport (where possible)

– events closer to membership population centers

– consider that membership doesn’t always lead to engagement, and engagement doesn’t always lead to membership (i.e., be willing to adapt our membership model to accommodate a generation less inclined to join clubs)

 

Specific steps:

– appoint younger OH to represent the OHA at Gala, End-of-Summer Party, etc.

– appoint regional “fun coordinators” to organize OHA events for OH outside the NE

– encourage younger OH to serve as “OH Ambassadors” through free hut overeights

– develop more family-friendly activities (picnics, hikes, cabin overnights). Nat Balch, Liz Seabury, and Mary Ellen Webb to propose ideas.

– change language on website to indicate we accept multiple forms of electronic payment

– better promotion of professional networking through OHA LinkedIn group

– allow easier editing of personal profiles on the website

– add capability to sort OH listed in website database by region; link to map on website

– Eric Gotthold to collect and hang photos of current and recent croo at OH Cabin

– collect current croo contact info at hut parties

– use Resuscitator to collect and update contact info

– continue to take a few Steering Committee meetings “on the road” each year

– promote trail work opportunities to Y-OH who want to “give back”

– offer as much free content as possible to encourage engagement (access to Resuscitator, events, website and social media, etc.—stuff we already do)

 

Needless to say, the first half of November yielded some profound progress in dealing with a problem that should be occupying every OH. Without exaggeration, how well we answer this challenge will determine whether the OHA is still around in 10 or 15 years. Judging by the quality of the ideas and the amount of enthusiasm to try them, this meeting was a huge step towards securing that future.

 

8)         Joe Dodge Award (Bill Barrett, Stroker)

At the behest of the Steering Committee, Liz Seabury submitted Willy Ashbrook’s name for consideration for this year’s Joe Dodge Award. JDAC to meet in December.

 

9)         Trails Report (Bill Barrett, Ari Ofsevit)

Following Fallfest, Ari patrolled the Hutman’s and Hall’s Ledge Trails and reported that both are well maintained and well marked.

 

10)       New & Other Bidness

     Doug Hotchkiss will be organizing a Charlie Kellogg Memorial Ski Trip for February or March. Stay tuned.

Doug has also nominated Charlie for a posthumous Honorary OH, to be discussed at the next meeting.

Cal Lovering (70s) has an old raid item he plans to return to Carter next summer, possibly while acting as an OH Ambassador. The Crawford House flag has been missing from the hut system since the 1970s. Huts Management who were present during this announcement had no comment.

The batch of photos from the first round of the Greenleaf croo photo project were replaced due to some minor discoloration and other minor blemishes. They will be auctioned off at Fallfest 2016. Meanwhile, Bill Barrett to post them online.

New Greenleaf photo collages will be prepared by Sally Baldwin; Sally to contact James Wrigley to ascertain available wall space and best format for photos.

2016 OH events: Spring Reunion, May 14^th; Fallfest, Nov. 5^th.

 

11)       Date for Next Steering Committee Meeting: 1/26. Stroker to research holding the next meeting at Joy St. Keep the business short, include a tour of the OH Archives, and move on to a local pub by 8:30 or so?

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stroker

12/1/15

 

Minutes for OH Steering Committee Meeting 9/15/15

Minutes for

OH Steering Committee Meeting,

Sept. 15, 2015

 

 

Present: JHosh Alper, Bill Barrett, Doug Hotchkiss, Tom Kelleher, Andy McLane, Stroker Rogovin, Liz Seabury, Doug Shaffer, John Thompson.

 

• Treasurer’s Report (Stroker for Moose)

Numbers are on track for the year.   Bills for video project documenting 2015 hut anniversaries and oral histories will probably exceed the original $5K figure approved, due to a last-minute change of personnel (see below).

2)         Cabin (Stroker)

Season pass ($75) program to start in 2016. Tom to post notice on the website. Stroker to discuss with Moose some way to provide pass users with documentation.

Caretaker Mike Waddell reports that the number of end-of-the-season parties sponsored by the Hut system has increased in recent years, and the cabin is often left worse than found. Mike to discuss with James Wrigley the idea of appointing an AMC staff person to oversee clean up after each party.

• MMVSP 50^thReport (Liz Seabury and Doug Hotchkiss)

Roughly 100 people packed the Tip Top House on Mt. Washington on July 25th to celebrate the 50^th anniversary of Tony MacMillan’s founding of the Mount Madison Volunteer Ski Patrol. A good time was had by all.

 

• Hut Anniversary Parties Report (Josh Alper, Liz Seabury, others)

Both the Mizpah 50^th and Lakes 100^th were well attended. At Mizpah, on August 14th, Bruce Sloat delivered yet another riveting presentation, this one on the construction of the hut, and was recognized by the OH for his many years of invaluable service to the AMC hut system. Many of those present attending hadn’t been to an OH event in some time. Same for the Lakes 100^th, August 15^th, which hosted a few hundred people throughout the day and an overflow crowd overnight. Brian Fowler held forth on the local geology (know your schist!). The weather was magnificent for both days, affording some excellent hiking with stunning views. Both parties featured live music after dinner, and remembrances by former croo. Current croos and hut system management did a great job of hosting and supporting these events, and for that they have our sincere thanks. Doug Shaffer and Lincoln Benedict shot video throughout the weekend under the direction of Dave Huntley, who will be editing the raw footage into a feature video of the weekend. Video may also be worked into shorts for posting on the website, FB, YouTube, etc., as well as oral histories.

Also, kudos all around to the planning committee, chaired by John Nutter and Willy Ashbrook with help from Ken Olsen and others, who did a magnificent job of attending to every detail and producing two most memorable events.

5)         Nepal Disaster Relief (Stroker for John Gross)

Tabled for next meeting.

6)         OH Ambassador Program (Josh Alper and Stroker)

Only 5 OH paid visits to huts this past summer as official OH ambassadors, but those that did participate in this program were extremely enthusiastic. It’s hoped that more OH can be encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity with reminders at events and in the Resuscitator, particularly when reminded that their stay is gratis, courtesy of the AMC, and includes a hiking partner as well as themselves.

Gerry Whiting had an especially successful visit to Lonesome, which included a “Then and Now” after dinner program involving Gerry and the current croo. Initial feedback is that croos appreciate the ambassador program more than Latchstring Award visits, which tended to make croos feel judged and monitored.

The annual “welcome letters” that the OH sends to each croo member are typically distributed at Gala, but this year it was thought it would be nice to have OH ambassadors personally deliver them. Given the relatively small number of participants this year and the logistics of actually collecting the letters for distribution, the Steering Committee decided to revert to the old method of distributing at Gala.

7)         Video Project (Doug Shaffer and Stroker for Dave Huntley)

As mentioned above, Doug Shaffer and Lincoln Benedict captured something like 40 hours of video for editing by project coordinator Dave Huntley. Tim Jursak and Liz Seabury provided technical support, and Liz assisted with interviewing OH for the oral history part of this project. Dave was hoping to participate more directly with the shooting, donating his time to the OH, but had to delegate this part of the project to Doug and Lincoln due to a new job and the need to relocate. As Lincoln has kindly assumed more of this project, budget may be slightly above what was approved at the June meeting. Any difference will be offset by funds left over from the Hut Anniversary fundraising and private donations.

Stroker to ask Dave if he can edit a short clip for showing at Fallfest. Dave to edit material for a longer feature over the coming months.

8)         Oktoberfest (Stroker for Dick Stetson & Mike Waddell)

Date moved from 17^th to 3^rd. As in past years, the event will be publicized on the website, FB page, and in the Resuscitator.

8)         Fallfest (Josh Alper, Stroker, others)

This year’s featured speaker will be Brian Fowler, holding forth on the geology of the Great Gulf. For those wishing to make reservations at the Highland Cneter for lodging and/or dinner, the OH group reservation number is 267835. Tom Kelleher to post this number on the website.

Beth Weick to MC the reunion as Stroker will be at a wedding.

Many supported the idea of putting together a digital slideshow of hut anniversary photos to be displayed at Fallfest. Tom Kelleher to coordinate.

The Committee voted unanimously to nominate Willy Ashbrook for recognition as an Honarary OH. Stroker to ask Linus Story to make the introduction.

The Committee also wished to acknowledge the many years of hard work and support for Oktoberfest by Bridget Stetson and Joan Low. Stroker to contact Dick Low about publicly thanking them at Fallfest.

9)         Resuscitator (Stroker for Beth Weick)

                Deadline is 9/15.

10)       Hut Croo Photo Project: Lonesome (Stroker for Dave Huntley)

Dave’s working on it. He contacted James Wrigley about croo photos that might be at PNC. Vefry few photos currently at the hut or in AMC archives.

11)       Website (Tom Kelleher)

                 Tom has reorganized access to photos on the website to make them easier to view.

                       

12)       Membership Development (Stroker for Ari Ofsevit)

Hopefully our West Coast (Will Murray) and East Coast (Ari Ofsevit) Y-OH delegates will be organizing some pub nights this fall and winter. Stay tuned.

13)       Joe Dodge Award Committee (Bill Barrett and Benny Taylor)

Liz Seabury to field nominations from Steering Committee members and make a final selection in consultation with Bill Barrett prior to the JD Award Meeting in October.

14)       Trails Report (Bill Barrett)

Liz Seabury, John Thompson, and Bill Barrett convened a trail maintenance party on 7/2 to patrol the Hutman’s Trail. Logging operations along the Hall’s Ledge Trail avoided damaging the treadway, but the trail still needs some clearing, which Bill Barrett hopes to complete with help during the weekend of Oktoberfest.

15)       New & Other Bidness

John Thompson and Liz Seabury have agreed to research possible venues for future Steering Committee meetings, going out two years. Local sites to preferably include parking, access to public transportation, affordable food and drink, quiet atmosphere conducive to meetings, and proximity to likely attendees. “Road trip” meetings to target geographic concentrations of OH living further afield.

16)       Date for Next Steering Committee Meeting: 11/17.

Stroker

9/19/15

Charlie Kellogg update

Dear All,

We’ve had a busy few days at MGH with Charlie, and feel he is in good hands and receiving good care.  We were informed by the doctors today that they have found a tumor that is difficult to define but that they believe is a malignant sarcoma.  A few more days are required for the pathology department to complete their lab tests, and at that time we will be able to begin to formulate a treatment plan.  Due to the difficult nature of the tumor, and its proximity to nerves, spinal cord and arteries (in the brachial plexus), our best guess it that surgery will not be one of the options.  It is likely that some form  of radiation may be prescribed.

The good news is that treatment of the tumor could potentially give him some relief from the terrible nerve pain that he has been suffering.  A secondary problem of low sodium has been addressed and hopefully will, in the next few days, begin to bring his “neuro status” back to normal and he will be more oriented.

We will know more in the coming days and plan to set up a Caring Bridge site if you would like more information.  I appreciate all your love and concern for both of us but please understand if I do not get back to you via e-mail right away, we are very busy trying to arrange the best care we can.

Gillian

 

Minutes for OH Steering Committee Meeting 6/16/15

Minutes for

OH Steering Committee Meeting,

June 16, 2015

 

Present: Josh Alper, Bill Barrett, Doug Hotchkiss, Dave Huntley, Ari Ofsevit, Stroker Rogovin, Liz Seabury, John Thompson.

 

1)         Treasurer’s Report (Stroker for Moose)

Income and expenses are roughly average for this time of year.   Only surprise was minor: Spring Reunion not only paid for itself but turned a small profit ($70).

2)         Cabin (Stroker)

Caretaker Mike Waddell reported unauthorized use of the cabin in May—someone had jimmied one of the rear windows and was using the place without bolthering to register at Pinkham. Anyone using the cabin is required to produce proof of current membership at the Pinkham desk and sign the register in order to obtain the key. Mike responded to the situation by posting a notice asking any users, until further notice, to confirm their use of the cabin by calling him (as well as signing out the key through the usual procedure), adding that he would make periodic spot checks to make sure cabin use was legitimate. His response seems to have solved the problem. The take-away here is that cabin use is a privilege, not a right; and given that there always seems to be a small minority who abuse the system—as simple and fair as it is—there will always be a need for the rest of us to remind this minority of basic protocols like signing out the goddamn key and paying the goddamn fee. Joe Dodge might not have put it that politely.

In the interest of encouraging cabin use, juicing revenue from fees, and instilling “ownership” among users, Ari Ofsevit proposed offering a “season pass.” This would be a one-time annual fee, payable along with dues in the fall, and would run for the following year and allow access to the cabin for the cardholder. Fee would be $75 (the equivalent of 5 overnight stays for members over 25). Moose would make some indication on the back of membership cards (maybe a stamp?) to indicate members who opted for the plan. It would simplify payment processing for both users and OH treasurer, and hopefully increase use and care of the cabin. The Committee voted unanimously to try this arrangement, effective 2016.

3)       Spring Reunion Report (John Thompson)

As noted above, Spring Reunion actually paid for itself for the first time in recent memory, mostly due to the fact that this year was BYOB. Approximately 50 people participated, enjoying fine weather. Attendees were all “advanced in age.” The Steering Committee agreed to revisit at a later meeting the challenge of attracting younger members to this event.

4)         Gala (Stroker)

Beth Weick authored another letter to incoming hut croos, welcoming them back to the huts and introducing them to the OHA. In prior years the letters have been distributed at Gala, but after some discussion amongst James Wrigley (Huts Manager), Stroker, Beth Weick, Josh Alper, and others, it was agreed to personalize these salutations by having OH hand-deliver them during hut visits this summer. Personal delivery provides visiting OH with a natural entree to discuss the OHA, and will hopefully help “put a face” to the message that we welcome young OH into our organization.

Currently, James Wrigley has copies of the letter at Pinkham. Doug Hotchkiss suggested making them available online for printing to avoid having to go through Pinkham. Stroker to facilitate this.

Representing the OHA at Gala were OH Pat Scanlon, Levy Keszey, and Abby Giles, who gave “one of the best presentations in years” according to James Wrigley. Thanks guys!

5)         MMVSP Traverse & Picnic, 50^th Anniversary, July 25 (Stroker for Brian Fowler)

As mentioned at the last meeting, MMVSP leadership are eager to hand off the guidance of this fun organization to other, younger hands. Anyone wishing to help with the very modest management of the MMVSP should contact Brian Fowler.

6)         OH Hut Visit Program (Josh Alper)

Five participants signed up so far. Visit a hut as an OHA ambassador and get a free night! All you have to do is interact with the croo, listen, talk a bit about the OHA and hut lore, and be generally helpful and supportive. And deliver “welcome” letters. Talk to Josh.

7)         Hut Anniversaries (Dave Huntley, Liz Seabury & Stroker for John Nutter)

Steering Committee briefly discussed options and demand for souvenirs. Water bottles trumped tee shirts, mostly owing to lower cost, novelty, utility, and ease of packing to these events.  Exact quantity was never determined; planning committee to make the final call, with the understanding that unsold inventory can always be marketed at other events and by mail.

Both Mizpah and Lakes celebrations will provide simple lunches of soup and bread; participants are encouraged to bring supplementary chow. BYOB as well, although arrangements have been made through OH Toben Traver, now employed by the Portland Brewing Company, to provide kegs at both events.   Donations will be solicited to help offset cost of beer.

As noted in earlier minutes, on the advice of many, programs at both events will be “short and sweet.” Presentations have been allocated to afternoon and after-dinner slots of an hour-plus each, with plenty of time for gabbing. Both anniversaries will feature music and dancing after dinner.

Due to limited overnight space and the large number of OH attending these events, John Thompson has been researching lodging options in the valley, including Shapleigh Studio (Highland Center), Tucks, and Harvard Cabin (Rt. 16). Tenting at Nauman (Mizpah) is another option, but it’s first-come-first-served and extremely limited. Attendees are reminded that neither the AMC, the USFS, nor the OHA condone illegal overnight camping—we should do what we can to make arrangements for comfortable, responsible overnight accommodations, and encourage friends to do likewise.

AMC hiker shuttles will be available for transporting people to and from cars at trailheads. Ride-share boards will be posted at breakfast at both events. Overnight parking on the summit for the Lakes event (8/15) has been arranged by Brian Fowler. This is not standard Auto Road policy and is a huge benefit for anyone planning to access Lakes via the summit. You’ll still be required to pay the regular Auto Road rate of $28 per car and driver, plus $8 per passenger. Just announce yourself at the toll booth and give the guy your vehicle make, model, and license plate. Note that the Auto Road will be closed to traffic 8/15 from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM due to a bike race.

All the above info will be disseminated via the OHA website, Faceplant page, and direct notice from the AMC to anyone with an overnight resi.

Dave Huntley and three assistants (Doug Shaffer, Miles Howard, and Lincoln Benedict) have generously agreed to volunteer their time and talents to shoot video of the entire weekend and edit the results into a 30 – 60 minute feature that will be distributed as a souvenir. Target date for finished video is Fallfest, but it may come in later.  We’ll charge a small fee for DVD or download, to help recoup some of the cost.

Dave and crew will also be capturing oral histories and historical commentary.  The basic idea is to get as much material in the can as possible, so it’s available for other video projects down the road, like historical docs (possibly organized by decade) and short promotional videos targeting Y-OH and current croo.  Dave will catalog everything.

Miles Howard will be working on Y-OH outreach videos.  We also plan to invite other videographers to use this material to create additional content for the OHA website, FB and other online outlets to increase OHA visibility where Y-OH typically go for info and entertainment.

The Steering Committee approved $5K for this work at the last meeting, but there are still some concerns over cost to the OHA treasury, so a number of alternative funding sources were suggested, including surplus funds from the planning committee and contributions from individual OH.

Aside from creating a terrific tribute to two very special places and the people who were blessed enough to work there, this project is a fantastic opportunity to get our story out to recent and current croo, in a medium that speaks to them the loudest. If we don’t want to wind up “like the Shakers,” we need to involve more Y-OH in our events and our leadership. Sexy video may not be the answer, but we won’t know until we try. Please contact Stroker if you’d like to make a contribution, however modest, to support this initiative (stroker1001@gmail.com).

8)         Fallfest

Brian Fowler has agreed to give one of his characteristically interesting and fun talks on recent research on the geology of the Great Gulf. If anyone can make rocks come alive, it’s this guy.

Josh Alper to contact Sheldon Perry about obtaining and advertising a group event number to facilitate making reservations.

9)         Resuscitator (Stroker for Beth Weick)

Deadline is 9/15 for the November issue. Between reports on the Mizpah and MMVSP 50^th, the OH Cabin 75^th, and the Lakes 100^th, this one should be a collector’s item.

10)       Hut Croo Photo Project: Lonesome (Dave Huntley)

Unlike any other hut, Lonesome has virtually no existing display of croo photos. Dave will contact James Wrigley to track down whatever may be on file at Pinkham. At minimum, there should be digitally stored photos of Lonesome croos going back 30 years or so, traditionally shown at Vinnie Night. Lack of photos may be partly due to lack of display space. One solution may be to produce a bound album rather than rely on wall space, as we did for Carter. Dave to contact Sally Dinsmore and establish a project schedule for soliciting, assembling, and processing photos for spring 2016.

           

11)       Website (Tom Kelleher)

No webmaster, no report.

                       

12)       Membership Development (Ari Ofsevit, Stroker)

Former croo and current AMC Librarian Becky Fullerton has agreed to host a Y-OH social at AMC headquarters on Beacon Hill. Ari Ofsevit to select a date and publicize the event this summer. Hopefully the event attracts 10 or 12 Y-OH, to enjoy the relaxed setting and perhaps a tour of the AMC library.

OH Karen Thorpe & Dave Haughey have offered to organize a Y-OH pot luck this fall at their home in Lebanon, NH.

Y-OH pub nights continue to be hosted in Boston by Ari, and on The Other Coast by our ambassador to the Independent Republic of San Francisco, Will Murray.

13)       Joe Dodge Award Committee (Bill Barrett & Stroker)

After some confusion about the OHA’s role on the Award Committee, Josh Alper and Stroker conferred with James Wrigley and confirmed that the OHA has three representatives on the nominating committee, one of which must be a member of the Dodge family (currently represented by recent croo Dominique). Benny Taylor and Bill Barrett are our other two representatives. The Steering Committee voted unanimously to nominate Willy Ashbrook for the 2016 Joe Dodge Award; Liz Seabury agreed to follow up with the necessary paperwork.

Josh also reviewed the Committee’s charter and suggested updates to the language to reflect changes in the Club’s governance.

 

14)       Trails Report (Bill Barrett)

Our most active trail workers, Bill Barrett and John Thompson, were both unable to put in their customary time this past Spring Reunion, so work remains. Halls Ledge Trail still requires blazing, and the Hutman’s trail could use some clearing. John, Bill, and Liz Seabury to get to this in early July. Much appreciated guys!

White Mountain Forest parking passes are free to anyone willing to donate at least 15 hours of trail work. And the OHA could always use your help maintain trails around the cabin. So contact John Thompson , Bill Barrett, or Stroker if you’d like to help with this rewarding work. We’re also looking for people interested to learn a thing or two about how to handle an axe, by participating in the annual spring USFS axe certification training session hosted by USFS axe master and OH Bailey Presiendorfer. They don’t teach you how to stop a charging bull, but you’ll learn how not to cut your leg off.

 

15)       New & Other Bidness

Nope.

16)       Date for Next Steering Committee Meeting: 9/15

Stroker

6/16/15