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<img src="images/jackhamr.gif" width=167 height=347 alt="Under construction" align=right hspace=10>
<H1 align=center><big>What's New</big>  </h1>
<center><font color=black size=4><b> Latest updates: </font><font color=red size=5>



April 10, 




2011 </font></b></center>



<BR><BR>

<center><font size="4"><i>Welcome to ALDHA's home page. As with any home page, <br>

this site is often updated with new roads, walkways and paths. <br>
Here's what's new:</i></font><BR>
</center>
<BR><BR>


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<font size="4" color=red>Week ending April 17, 2011 ...</font>
<br>
<ul>
<li type="square"> <b><font color=red>ALDHA TRIVIA CONTEST:</font></a></b> Just for fun, try your hand at this new trivia contest based on a little bit of ALDHA history: <a href="http://www.classmarker.com/embedded_quizzes/?quiz=84b79599bbb1696388127519e9206ac3" title="Take our online test" TARGET="_blank">Test your ALDHA IQ here!</a>. 
<br>
</ul>

<br>
<font size="4" color=red>Week ending April 9, 2011 ...</font>
<br>
<ul>
<li type="square">New details are being added this week regarding the GATHERING, including a link to the interactive online article about our keynote speaker, Andrew Skurka, whose adventurous roundabout of Alaska and the Yukon was featured in the March issue of National Geographic. Read more at <a href="gathring.htm" TARGET="_blank">the Gathering page</a>. <br>
<br>
<li type="square">We have created an <a href="http://form.jotform.com/form/10944308246" target=" blank">ONLINE workshop presenter's form</a> that you can fill out from  your computer and email to us with the click of a few buttons. If you want to do a workshop at the Gathering on either a trail you have hiked recently or some backpacking-related issue (like how to hang a bear bag, how to organize maildrops, what to take for first aid supplies, how to spot Lyme disease, etc.) just fill out this form and hit the Submit button. It will be emailed automatically to the coordinators. <font color=red><b>DEADLINE IS AUGUST 1st.</b></font> for getting your workshops submitted in time to appear in the Gathering program. <BR>
<br>
<li type="square">News and photos from the spring work trip held at the Pearisburg hostel have been posted online. Read more at <a href="worktrip.htm" TARGET="_blank">the Work Trip page</a>. 
<br>
</ul>

<br>
<font size="4" color=red>Week ending April 2, 2011 ...</font>
<br>
<ul>
<li type="square">Reminder: The spring steering committee meeting is set for April 9 at Ironmasters Mansion Hostel in Pine Grove Furnace State Park, Gardners, Pa. If you plan to attend and haven't already alerted the coordinator, please email him at <a href="mailto:coordinator@aldha.org">coordinator@aldha.org</a> so he can make sure we have room, etc. 
<br><br>
<li type="square">The ALDHA Store has been tweaked a little more, so now you can order items online AND <b>pay for them online</b>, all via a shopping cart and the magic of Paypal. If you don't have a Paypal account, you can still use Paypal as a guest and pay with a credit card. Find out more at <a href="store.htm" TARGET="_blank">the ALDHA Store</a>. 
<br><br>
<li type="square">Coming soon: A "new" T-shirt will be added to our variety of merchandise, this one being a throwback to ALDHA's very first T-shirt in the early 1990s. Details posted here when merchandise Coordinator Scott Dowling has them ready.<br>
<br>
</ul>

<font size="4" color=red>Week ending March 12, 2011 ...</font>
<br>
<ul>
<li type="square">Several new items have been added to the <a href="http://www.aldha.org/store.htm" TARGET="_blank"> ALDHA Store</a>.  Check out the new Katahdin and Springer paperweights and pins. <br>
<br>
</ul>

<font size="4" color=red>Week ending March 5, 2011 ...</font>
<br>
<ul>
<li type="square">Paying your Gathering registration fee and renewing your membership in ALDHA is now as easy as the click of a button with our new PAYPAL option. If you have a Paypal account, it's easy. If you don't have one, it costs you nothing to get one started, and in fact, you don't even have to set up an account to use Paypal; all you need is a credit card (visit paypal.com to learn how). Check out the new online payment options on our <a href="http://www.aldha.org/join.htm" TARGET="_blank"><font color=navy><b>MEMBERSHIP</a></font> <a href="http://www.aldha.org/join.htm" TARGET="_blank"><font color=navy>GATEWAY</font></a></b> page. <br>
<br>
<img src="images/Work_Crew_patch_final_design2011.jpg" align=left hspace=12 border=0 width=75><br>
The date for a joint TEHCC-ALDHA work trip has been added on the <a href="worktrip.htm">Work Trip</a> page. Also, get a preview look at the almost-finished patch that will be given to every person who takes part in an ALDHA-sponsored work trip. (The only remaining change in the design will be the color of the sky, FYI.)<br clear=all>


</ul>

<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Feb. 19, 2011 ...</font>
<br>
<ul>
<li type="square">The <a href="newsletr/11spring.pdf">spring edition of The Long Distance Hiker newsletter</a> has been posted online. The print version is being printed and will be in the mail later this month. <br>
<br>

<li type="square">News has been posted about a quilt raffle, the drawing for which will occur at the Gathering. <a href="quilt2011.htm">Read the details and see what the quilt looks like here</a>. All proceeds will go to benefit ALDHA. <br>
<br>

<li type="square"> ALDHA�s Spring Steering Committee Meeting is scheduled for Saturday, April 9, 2011. We will meet at Ironmasters Hostel, Pa. The meeting will start at 9 a.m. and will continue until all business is completed. You can stay at the hostel for $25 a night by calling 717-486-4108 or by emailing ironmasterspinegrove@gmail for reservations. Everyone is invited, but we would like to know if you are attending to make sure we have food for you. Just call Coordinator Mike Wingeart at 443-791-9196 or email him at <a href="mailto:coordinator@aldha.org">coordinator@aldha.org</a>.<br>
<br>
<br>


<li type="square">  <b><font color=red>HELP WANTED</b></font><br>
<br>
<b>1. Work Crew Coordinator<br></b>
<ul>We are looking for a leader to organize ALDHA�s work trips. This coordinator will be responsible for finding the work to be done, coordinating with the local clubs, and getting our volunteers for the work trips. If you ever wanted to plan, organize, and supervise work on any trail, hostel, or boundary this is your chance! Please contact me at 443-791-9196 or email me at <a href="mailto:coordinator@aldha.org">coordinator@aldha.org</a> for more information.<br>
</ul>
<br>
<b>2. Program Coordinator for the 2012 Gathering</b><br>
<ul>We are looking a leader to organize the Gathering <i>after</i> this year's. This is a very challenging job and requires a great deal of organizational traits and a little imagination to find the presenters and workshops for the 2012 Gathering. This person must be able to work with minimal supervision and with lots of attention to detail to make this gathering a great one. Please contact me at 443-791-9196 or email me at <a href="mailto:coordinator@aldha.org">coordinator@aldha.org</a>.<br>
</ul>
<br>
<b>3. Facilities Coordinator for the 2012 Gathering</b><br>
<ul>We are looking for someone to interface with the College officials to insure the facilities are ready for the Gathering and then to insure everything is functioning for the workshops and presenters. This person needs to be a good organizer and people person to interface with everyone involved with the Gathering. Must be able to work with the program coordinator. Please contact me at 443-791-9196 or email at <a href="mailto:coordinator@aldha.org">coordinator@aldha.org</a>.<br>
</ul>
<br>
Please consider volunteering for one of these positions . . .  We really need someone to step up. You�ll have lots of help, we just need you. Thank you.<br>
<br>

<li type="square">   <b><font color=red>WORK CREW NEWS</b></font><br>
See the item posted Feb. 13 by the coordinator of ALDHA on the <a href="worktrip.htm">Work Trip</a> page.<br>
<br>
<br>


</ul>
<br><br>



<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Feb. 12, 2011 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square"> The digital version of The A.T. Thru-Hikers' Companion is once again available. Registered members of ALDHA can get the PDFs e-mailed to them for free, while nonmembers will be charged $8, payable by Paypal. For all the details, please visit the <a href="comp_pdf.htm">Online Companion page</a>. <br>
<br>
<li type="square">We have also added a host of new items to our merchandise lineup. Check out the new <a href="http://www.aldha.org/sale.htm" TARGET="_blank"><font color=navy>ALDHA STORE</font></a>, where you can print out an order form and mail us your order along with payment. We are working on getting the store set up for ordering and paying directly online using Paypal, and we will alert everyone when that is up and running.<br>
<br>
<li type="square">And, finally, we have created a new introduction to ALDHA for all prospective members. Visit the <a href="http://www.aldha.org/join.htm" TARGET="_blank"><font color=navy>MEMBERSHIP GATEWAY</font></a> and help spread the word about joining this organization. You can also now pay your membership fees via Paypal.<br>
<br>
<br>
<li type="square"> The 2011 <a href="directry.htm">Directory</a> is in the mail. If you're a member in good standing, you should be receiving yours soon. If you want to make sure you get one next year, be sure to renew your membership for next year. Check the mailing label on your last newsletter if you get it mailed to you, or the label on this year's Directory to see if you owe dues. There are membership forms printed in both the newsletter and Directory, and there's a <a href="http://www.aldha.org/form.htm" TARGET="_blank">printable form</a> here on the website as well. (NOTE: You can now pay your membership fees using Paypal.<br>
<br>
<li type="square"> <b><big><font color=red>Remember, the DEADLINE for submitting something to the next newsletter is FEB. 15.</b></big></font> Email it to <a href="mailto:newsletter@aldha.org">newsletter@aldha.org</a><br>
<br>
</ul>
<br>

<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Jan. 29, 2011 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square"> The 2011 Directory is at the printers and should be delivered sometime in early February. Read about this year's Directory, as well as the very first Directory in 1985, on the <a href="directry.htm">Directory</a> page.<br>
<br>

<li type="square"> The 18th edition of the <a href="companyn.htm">Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker's Companion</a> is in stock and ready for sale through the <a href="ATC_store.htm">ATC's Ultimate Trail Store</a>. Order a copy today and help support ALDHA and the Appalachian Trail. <b><font color=red>NOTE:</font></b> <i>We are currently reviewing our policy toward the online version of the Companion, so as of Jan. 26 the files have been taken down from the site. We will post news about the status of the online Companion as soon as the ALDHA board reaches a decision.</i><br>
<br>

<li type="square"> A celebration of Walkin' Jim's life will take place in August in Big Sky, Mont. We've posted some info, and hope to upload more, on the <a href="walkinjim2010.htm">Walkin' Jim tribute page</a> as well as a note from Leslie on the <a href="bulletin.htm">Bulletin Board</a>.<br>
<br>
</ul>
<br>

<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Jan. 15, 2011 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square"> Big news from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy: Executive Director Dave Startzell is retiring near the end of this year after 26 years of service. Read more at <a href="http://tinyurl.com/4uj7zvj">the ATC website</a> and send Dave a congratulatory message via <a href="http://www.facebook.com/update_security_info.php?wizard=1#!/ATHike">Facebook.</a> <br>
<br>
</ul>
<br>

<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Dec. 25, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square"> The electronic version of the winter newsletter is now available. The print version is still on its way for most folks. Consider opting for the E-edition, not just because it will help save ALDHA money, but you also get a few extra pages and all the photos in color! Check out the e-edition on the <a href="newsletr.htm">Newsletter</a> page. And if you want to drop the print edition in favor of the e-edition, just let the <a href="mailto:membership@aldha.org">membership secretary</a> know. You will always get an email whenever a new e-edition is available. <br>
<br>
</ul>
<br>









<!--     ======================   DELETED OFF WEB PAGE as of April 1, 2011 ============================

<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Dec. 11, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square"> The organizers of Trailfest in Hot Springs, N.C., have changed the date of their 2011 festival to April 16. See a list of all trail-related festivals on the <a href="festival.htm">Trail Festival</a> page.<br>
<br>
</ul>
<br>

<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Dec. 4, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square"> Congratulations to Noel DeCavalcante, who has been elected by the board of directors to fill a vacancy on the board created by the resignation of Ernest Engman. Noel will serve in the position until the next Gathering, when the remainder of the term will be filled at the election during the business meeting. For a full list of current board members, visit the <a href="who.htm#board">Who We Are</a> page.<br>
<br>
</ul>
<br>

<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Nov. 27, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square"> More details have been posted on the <a href="gathring.htm">Gathering page</a>, including directions and a map to the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts in North Adams, Mass., home of the 30th Gathering Oct. 7-9, 2011. <br>
<br>
<li type="square"> <b><big><font color=red>Remember, the DEADLINE for submitting something to the next newsletter is DEC. 15.</b></big></font> Email it to <a href="mailto:newsletter@aldha.org">newsletter@aldha.org</a><br>
<br>
<li type="square"> News on the membership front... We will have a new membership secretary -- Cindy Miller -- with the new year. Check out the news blurb on our <a href="bulletin.htm">bulletin board</a>. Many thanks, by the way, to "Mrs. Gorp" for taking the time to check on broken links throughout the ALDHA Web site. <br>
<br>
<li type="square"> The <a href="festival.htm">Trail Festival</a> page has been updated for 2011 with dates for most of the major A.T.-related events and websites where you can get more information. <br>
<br>
</ul>
<br>

<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Nov. 20, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>

<li type="square"> More big news: We have posted an introductory message about the 2011 Gathering. Yes, the rumors are true. We are having one. LOL... No ... that's not the news! It's that we are heading for the trail town of North Adams, Massachusetts, on Columbus Day Weekend! Find all the basic information on <a href="gathring.htm">the Gathering page</a>, and keep checking back as we add more and more details. It's only November 2010 -- we know! -- but if you read the whole note to the end, you'll realize why you need to start thinking about the 2011 Gathering NOW! <br>
<br>
<li type="square"> Big news about <a href="lyrics.htm">"The ALDHA Song"</a> that you don't want to miss. The version recorded by Jim in 2006 is now available for free download. Also, the <a href="aldasong.htm">lyrics to the song</a> are now online in case you want to perform it or sing along next time. (Note: When visiting the lyrics page, you'll hear Jim sing the song as you read along.) <br>
<br>
<li type="square"> Toward that end, we have updated the ALDHA BROCHURE for next year and it is now available for you to download, print out and give to someone you think might want to attend our fall classic next year. Find the link on the <a href="brochure.htm">brochure page</a>.<br>
<br>
<li type="square"> We have posted the beautiful poem that Kevin Smith composed and then read during our tributes to Walkin' Jim Stoltz at this year's Gathering. Kevin crafted his poem using titles and lyrics from Jim's songs. Check it out on the <a href="walkinjim2010.htm">Walkin' Jiim tribute page</a>.
<br><br>
<li type="square"> ALDHA is soliciting designs for two new patches: One to commemorate a hiker's completion of the A.T., the other to recognize those who take part in an ALDHA work trip. And speaking of ALDHA work trips, isn't it about time our trail crews had a catchy nickname? <a href="patch.htm">Find out more here</a>.<br>
<br>
<li type="square"> A testimonial from Leslie Stoltz has been posted on the <a href="walkinjim2010.htm">Walkin Jim tribute page</a>.<br>
<br>

</ul>
<br>


<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Nov. 13, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square">Some housekeeping updates are in the works... Starting with the list of the new board of directors on the   <a href="who.htm">Who is ALDHA?</a> page.  <br>
</ul>
<br>


<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Nov. 6, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square">Next Wednesday, Nov. 10, be sure to tune in to the Today show on NBC to catch ALDHA member Joe Liles, "Braid," during a special segment featuring active people over the age of 50. They interviewed Braid, a 2009 thru-hiker, on Bear Mountain in New York, so it will feature the Appalachian Trail. They also interviewed Laurie Potteiger at Appalachian Trail Conservancy headquarters in Harpers Ferry. It will probably run only a few minutes but it's worth checking out. If you were at this year's Gathering, Braid sang his "Hiker Song" during the testimonials on Friday night. <b>(NOTE: the original date has changed. It is now set for Wednesday morning, Nov. 10.)</b>   <br>
</ul>
<br>


<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Oct. 23, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square">Thanks for a nice Gathering. We had a little over 200 people on hand -- small but cozy. If you'd like to share thoughts and photos, by all means send them along to <a href="mailto:aldha@aldha.org">aldha@aldha.org</a> and we will post them here. Thanks to Walt Anderson for being the first to get some photos sent to us.   <br>
<br>
And just to clarify a rather baffling message posted on Whiteblaze a few weeks ago complaining that there was no way to ask ALDHA a question on its website: On the main page, on this page, and on numerous other pages here at ALDHA.ORG, you will find any number of email addresses for various functions of ALDHA, including the obvious intuitive address any thinking person on the web can figure out: aldha@aldha.org. (It's on the main page, and it's been posted elsewhere on here since the mid-1990s, as well as in every year's Directory, in the newsletter, in our brochure, and on other trail-related websites as well.) To suggest there is no way to ask ALDHA a question on its website is just downright deceitful. <br>
<br>
Here is a list of the standard operating addresses for which you can contact various different people in ALDHA, depending on what you're looking for: We will add this as a permanent fixture on the main page, <a href="index.htm">www.aldha.org</a>, as well.<br>
<br>
       <a href="mailto:coordinator@aldha.org">coordinator@aldha.org</a>  -- For the coordinator of ALDHA<br>
       <a href="mailto:membership@aldha.org">membership@aldha.org</a>  -- For the membership secretary<br>
       <a href="mailto:newsletter@aldha.org">newsletter@aldha.org</a> --  For the newsletter editor<br>
       <a href="mailto:companion@aldha.org">companion@aldha.org</a> --  For the Companion editor<br>
       <a href="mailto:gathering@aldha.org">gathering@aldha.org</a>  -- For the Gathering coordinator<br>
       <a href="mailto:webmaster@aldha.org">webmaster@aldha.org</a>  -- For the ALDHA webmaster<br>
       <a href="mailto:aldha@aldha.org">aldha@aldha.org</a> --  For anything else<br>
</ul>
<br>


<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Oct. 16, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square">GREETINGS from the ALDHA Gathering at Concord University!!  Sitting here at the registration table at 10:30 this morning with Mara, Rich Evans, Mark Hudson and Chuck Wood. Had a nice opening night tribute to Walkin' Jim with recollections and songs from Warren Doyle, Al Sochard, Leonard Adkins, Frank Krajcovic, Hawk Metheny, Chuck, Takoma Tedd and myself. We also miss everyone who was not able to come this year for various reasons. <br>

<br>Some good news was announced on Friday: The 30th anniversary Gathering in 2011 will be held on Columbus Day Weekend, Oct. 7-9, 2011, at the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts in North Adams, Mass. ... Hoo-Wheee! We are already getting tons of enthusiastic ideas and support for our return to New England, at the height of fall foliage within full view of the entire Greylock Reservation. If you have any ideas, suggestions, workshops, slide shows or anything else for the next Gathering, just let us know at <a href="mailto:gathering@aldha.org">gathering@aldha.org</a>. <i>--Bill O'Brien</i>   
</ul>
<br>


<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Sept. 25, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square">Some words to the wise have been added to the <a href="gathring.htm">Gathering page</a>. Don't say we didn't warn you about possible long lines at the popular college cafeteria ;-). AND DON'T FORGET TO KEEP CHECKING THE <font color=red> <a href="rides.htm"><b>RIDE BOARD</b></a>!</font>
</ul>
<br>


<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Sept. 18, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square">Fresh details about the Gathering location have been posted on the <a href="gathring.htm">Gathering page</a>. Find out where the Friday evening programs will take place, what you need to know about navigating around the college's homecoming that weekend, where you need to park, when and how much the meals will cost in the student cafeteria, when the showers will be available, and when and where the hiker fair will be held. AND DON'T FORGET TO KEEP CHECKING THE <font color=red> <a href="rides.htm"><b>RIDE BOARD</b></a>!</font>
</ul>
<br>


<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Sept. 11, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square">In honor of the late Walkin' Jim Stoltz, a <a href="walkinjim2010.htm">tribute page</a> has been started, and your contributions are more than welcome. Email photos, stories, thoughts, condolences to <a href="mailto:aldha@aldha.org">aldha@aldha.org</a>.  Also, the <a href="newsletr.htm">fall edition of the ALDHA newsletter</a> has been posted online and you can check out a copy here.
</ul>
<br>


<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Sept. 4, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square"> Here is the direct link to the medical fund established on behalf of Walkin' Jim Stoltz (see note below): <br>
<br>
<center><a href="http://www.ntafund.org/find-a-patient/profile/index.cfm/patient/E730BD0A-FC25-5842-D71D739E26DE9780">http://www.ntafund.org/find-a-patient/profile/index.cfm/patient/E730BD0A-FC25-5842-D71D739E26DE9780</a></center><br>
<br>
Please help out one of the original members of our clan. If you wish to help spread the word, check out the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/index.php?lh=1be16c9b632c6fee47527f1220a740c5&eu=Xj8OG3VOseePTgx88P1mdw#!/group.php?gid=140888242619914">page that's been created on Facebook</a> and become a friend/supporter there. Thank you.
</ul>
<br>


<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Aug. 28, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square"> <B>A NOTE FROM WALKIN' JIM STOLTZ:</B> <br>
<br>
<br>
Hello Friends --<BR>
<BR>
This isn't my usual Wild Wind newsletter, but I've wanted to let many of you know of some recent challenges.  I returned home to Montana in mid-May intent on planning my next long trek and doing all kinds of projects I've had my heart set on.  But almost immediately I started experiencing breathing and fatigue problems.  The long, difficult ordeal of dealing with our health care system began, and I saw doctors in Helena, Seattle, and Billings with no good answers as to what was happening to me.   In July I started getting daily fevers that knocked me further down.  Finally, I had a doctor who checked me into the hospital where I stayed for 12 days as they did test after test to halt the fevers.  It was there in the Billings hospital a couple days into my visit that I learned that my cancer had metastasized, reappearing in my liver.  <BR>

 
<BR>
Needless to say, things aren't looking real good.  I've canceled my touring and am going through chemo treatments here in Helena.  I'm hoping (and planning) on getting some quality time returned to me after going through these treatments, but it looks like I'll be on chemo the rest of my life.  I would love to have my energy back and be able to do some things I'd like to do in the months (and perhaps years) ahead.  After all, I do have l lots of songs I'd still like to record!! <BR>

 <BR>

I'm sorry to share this sad news, but I know how important it is to have thoughts and prayers and energy coming my way right now.  You all have helped me in that department before and I hope you'll hold me in your light once again.   <BR>

 <BR>

I also wanted to get the word out about my Medical Fund.  This is something I set up several years ago but has been a great help with all the medical bills.  A big THANK YOU who have supported me in the past with contributions. Since I won't be working again it is something that will really pull me through with the dealings with health care.   You can access it at the NTAF site here  or go to my <a href="http://walkinjim.com/Jims_Medical_Fund.php">website page about it here</a>.<BR>
<img src="images/walkinjim.jpg" align=right hspace=10 vspace=12>
<BR>
I'll try to send out a more traditional newsletter next month, but for now I leave you with a quote from a Leonard Cohen song...<BR>
<BR>
<ul>
<i>"There is a crack in everything, that's how the light gets in."</I><BR>
</ul><BR>
    My life has given me a lot of cracks....and thus, a lot of light to guide my way wherever I may go. <BR>
<BR>
 <BR>
Love and Happy Trails,<BR>
<BR>     
<i>--- Walkin' Jim </i><BR>
<br>
<br>
</ul>
<br>

<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Aug. 21, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square"> Information on the Gathering has started to be posted. Check the <a href="gathring.htm">Gathering page</a> to track it all down, from programs on Friday night and Saturday to registration details and other info you need to know. Also, the  <a href="rides.htm">Ride Board</a> has been posted online, so if you need a ride or rider, check it out. We might be able to help you. <br>
</ul>
<br>



<font size="4" color=red>Week ending July 17, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square"> The new AT Museum had its grand opening last month, and here's <a href="atmuseumopen.htm">some of the press</a> telling the story of its opening. <br>
</ul>
<br>

<font size="4" color=red>Week ending June 24, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square"> The summer newsletter has been posted online, on the <a href="newsletr.htm">Newsletter page</a>, and some other housekeeping chores have been done here and there. We hope to post information on the Gathering soon. <br>
</ul>
<br>

<font size="4" color=red>Week ending April 24, 2010 ...</font>

<ul>
<li type="square"> Very sad news to pass along to all. Jim Burson, a 1959 thru-hiker, has passed away. His services will be tonight and tomorrow in Georgia. For several years, Jim organized the annual Amicalola Falls A.T. Celebration every March since it began several years ago, served on the board of GA State Parks, and was very active in introducing youth to the outdoors. He maintained the thru-hiker register at Amicalola Falls and shared the registry with ATC, worked as a ranger for Amicalola Falls State Park, and later served as president of the Friends of A.F.S.P. <br>
</ul>
<br>

<font size="4" color=red>Week ending March 13, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square"> Plans are in the works for the Grand Opening of the A.T. Museum, including a series of day hikes. You can also "hike in to history" to arrive at the site of the new museum in Pine Grove Furnace State Park just in time for the dedication ceremony on National Trails Day, June 5. Want to know more so you can plan ahead? Here are two fliers with all the details: <a href="newsletr/MUSEUM_HikeToHistory.pdf">Hike to History</a> and <a href="newsletr/MUSEUM_JuneHikes2010.pdf">Other June Hikes</a>. The hikes are being led by the Susquehanna A.T. Club in cooperation with the A.T. Museum Society, and the fliers include a standard hike release form. <br>

<b>NOTE:</b> <i>There's a limit of 150 hikers for the "Hike to History" excursion, so reserve your spot now.</i><br>
</ul>

<ul>
<li type="square"> The 2010 Directory has been delivered to most folks in ALDHA by now. If you haven't gotten yours yet, hold on. It may still be in transit. If you haven't gotten yours by March 15, let us know. See more on the <a href="directry.htm">Directory page</a>, including a copy of this year's cover. <br>
</ul>

<ul>
<li type="square"> <b>GOT THE FEVER?</b> Check out this <a href="fever.htm">brand new slide show</a> by Joe "Braid" Liles about his thru-hike last year... It features the song he wrote during his journey. Warning: You may get to scratchin' that Springer Fever. <br>

</ul>
<br>






<font size="4" color=red>Week ending March 6, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square"> The 2010 edition of the Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers' Companion is now posted online, on the <a href="companyn.htm">Companion page.</a> <br>
</ul>

<br>




<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Feb. 27, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square"> Here's the  <a href="newsletr/10spring.pdf">spring newsletter</a>. And good news from the print shop: The 2010 Directory was mailed out of North Carolina this past week, so it should be arriving in mailboxes very soon. <br>
</ul>
<br>



<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Feb. 20, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square"> ALDHA's spring meeting is coming up soon. Everyone is invited to participate. If you have any ideas or items you wish to bring to the board's attention please come join us on March 20th at Ironmasters Mansion Hostel at Pine Grove Furnace State Park. Please contact the coordinator at <a href="mailto:coordinator@aldha.org">coordinator@aldha.org</a> if you plan on attending so we can get an accurate headcount for Saturday's lunch and supper and Sunday's breakfast.  If you cannot attend but still have an item you wish considered please contact me at <a href="mailto:coordinator@aldha.org">coordinator@aldha.org</a>. Hope to see you there. <br>
-- <i>Jojo, ALDHA Coordinator </i><br>
<br>

<li type="square"> The  <a href="spring2010.htm">agenda for the spring steering committee meeting</a> has been posted here.<br>
</ul>
<br>

<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Feb. 13, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square"> We've updated the <a href="gathring.htm">Gathering page</a> with the details we have so far, including the date and time of the annual spring meeting, which is set for March 20 at Ironmasters Mansion Hostel in Pine Grove Furnace State Park. All members of ALDHA are welcome, but please contact the coordinator (coordinator@aldha.org) so meals can be properly organized. We are in need of a program coordinator for the Gathering, so please check out the Gathering page NOW. <br>

</ul>
<ul>
<li type="square"> Check out the clever little poem submitted by Glenn Mangold for the essays/poetry page of this site. The direct link: <a href="yeats.htm">If Yeats Had Been a Backpacker</a>.<br>
</ul>
<ul>
<li type="square"> <b><font color=red>Directory update:</b></font> The 2010 Directory is heading for the printers, so it won't be long now before you'll be receiving it in the mail.<br>
</ul>

<br>


<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Jan. 29, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square"> We have launched a new feature called the  <a href="poll.htm">the ALDHA Poll</a>. Check it out, read the question, offer your opinion and see how you did compared with everyone else's answers. If you have ideas for future polls, send them along to <a href="mailto:aldha@aldha.org">webmaster@aldha.org</a><br>
</ul>

<ul>
<li type="square"> The 2010 edition of the Thru-Hikers' Companion is now available for sale from the <a href="ATC_store.htm">the Appalachian Trail Conservancy Ultimate Trail Store</a>. [See an image of the <a href="images/2010comp.jpg">new cover</a> here.] <br>

</ul>
<br>


<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Jan. 16, 2010 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square"> Word has been received of the death of Harry Thomas, who was known to hikers and members of ALDHA by his trail name, "Harry the Indian." He attended several Gatherings. Here's the obituary that appeared in <a href="http://www.athensnews.com/news/obituaries/29930-harry-fitzgerald-thomas">the Athens News</a>. <br>
</ul>
<br>


<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Dec. 26, 2009 ...</font>

<ul>
<li type="square"> Happy Holidays to everyone. Here's the  <a href="newsletr/09winter.pdf">winter newsletter</a>. <br>
</ul>
<br>


<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Nov. 14, 2009 ...</font>
<ul>
<li type="square"> <font color=red><big><b>R E M I N D E R ! </font></big></b><BR>
<p>On Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 8 p.m. EST on the National Geographic cable channel, don�t miss the new full-length documentary, <b>�America�s Wild Spaces: Appalachian Trail,�</b> capturing the Appalachian Trail as only National Geographic can. 

<p>The National Geographic film crew will take you on a rollercoaster ride of agonizing ascents and rewarding vistas -- all courtesy of mountains roughly 480 million years in the making. You will get to explore the trail through the five distinct regions of the A.T. landscape and learn what it takes to keep this ribbon of green safe, healthy and totally wild.
<p>In addition to breathtaking scenery along the entire trail, you will get a chance to meet hikers, volunteers, trail angels, ATC staff, and scientists. Celebrate with fellow ATC members Frank Wright volunteering on Springer, Laurie Potteiger greeting visitors in Harpers Ferry, and Gary Hill completing his 2008 thru-hike atop Katahdin.<br>
<p>The film will be rebroadcast that same night (Tuesday) at 11 p.m., as well as the following Tuesday (Nov. 17) at 4 p.m. EST.<br>
<br>
</ul>






<br>

<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Nov. 7, 2009 ...</font>

<ul>
<li type="square"> More photos have been uploaded to our <a href="09_scrapbook.htm">online scrapbook</a>, thanks to �Panzer� and �Hoop Time.�  It is not too late to get your photos included, so send them to <a href="mailto:aldha@aol.com">aldha@aol.com</a>. Note: click to the end of the scrapbook for a followup story on the celestial event that some ALDHA folks witnessed on Friday night!<br>
</ul>

<ul>
<li type="square"> And speaking of �Hoop Time,� check out the story that ran Sunday in the Patriot News of Harrisburg <a href="http://www.pennlive.com/news/patriotnews/index.ssf?/base/news/1257027908324820.xml&coll=1">about the A.T. Museum�s opening</a> next Trails Day in Pine Grove Furnace State Park in Pennsylvania. It was written by Chris Couragen, aka �Hoop Time.�<br>

</ul>

<ul>
<li type="square"> For a report on ALDHA�s post-Gathering work trip at the A.T. Museum site, check out <a href="newsletr/Gathering_Work_Trip.pdf">the story writtten about it</a> by Sanne Bagby. <br>
</ul>

<ul>
<li type="square"> The deadline for the fall newsletter is Nov. 15, so get your photos and submissions in the editor�s hands as soon as possible. You can send your material to <a href="mailto:newsletter@aldha.org">newsletter@aldha.org</a>. <br>

</ul>

<br>
<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Oct. 31, 2009 ...</font>

<ul>
<li type="square"> <a href="images/group09.jpg">THE GROUP PHOTO</a> from the 2009 Gathering has been posted and can be downloaded for your scrapbooks. Speaking of which, we still need more photos for our <a href="09_scrapbook.htm">online scrapbook</a>. We know there are a lot of photos out there... please send some to us at <a href="mailto:aldha@aol.com">aldha@aol.com</a>. <br>
</ul>

<br>
<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Oct. 24, 2009 ...</font>

<ul>
<li type="square"> <a href="sale.htm">Leftover neck wallets, new bumper stickers</a> and other memorabilia that ALDHA sells have been added to the <a href="orderfrm.htm">order form</a> you can print out and mail in with your check or money order. Only a limited number of the new neck wallets are available, so get yours now. They were very well received at the Gathering. Also, the price on the remaining 25th anniversary T-shirts has been slashed, but only a few are still available. <br>
</ul>

<ul>

<li type="square"> <a href="brochure.htm"> A new brochure for 2010</a> has been posted online in PDF format. <br>
</ul>

<ul>
<li type="square"> If you would like to see and hear �Braid� sing �The Hiker Song,� which he composed during his A.T. thru-hike this past year, check out this <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=76oLtOmjlB4&feature=player_embedded">video from the Gathering</a> filmed by �Old Goat� and �Check6.� Providing musical backup for Joe are �Dutch Treat� and �Singer.� The song was performed during Walkin� Jim�s workshop, The Hikers� Muse, on Sunday afternoon at the Gathering.<br>
</ul>
<br>

<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Oct. 17, 2009 ...</font>

<ul>
<li type="square"> An <a href="09_scrapbook.htm"><B>ONLINE SCRAPBOOK OF THE GATHERING</a></B> has now been posted online. It is made up of photos submitted by those who were there, and there�s plenty of room left if you�d like to contribute your artwork. Just send your pics to <href="mailto:aldha@aol.com">aldha@aol.com</a>.  <br>
</ul>

<ul>
<li type="square"> If you enjoyed your experience at this year�s Gathering, please write a letter to Janet Morgan Riggs, the president of Gettysburg College, and let her know what your impressions are of her university... Its grounds, buildings, classrooms, state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, etc., and how much you enjoyed your visit there. You can write to her online. Just visit this site: <a href="http://www.gettysburg.edu/about/offices/president/contact.dot">Contact the President</a>, and follow the instructions. If you prefer to write a personal note and mail it to her, the address is: <br>

<ul>Janet Morgan Riggs, President<br>
Gettysburg College<br>
Gettysburg, PA 17325<br>
</ul><br>
</ul>
<br>

<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Oct. 10, 2009 ...</font><br>
<br>
<ul>
<li type="square"> <font color=red><b><big>ON OUR WAY TO GATHERING:</font></b> Hope to see you all in Gettysburg! </big><br>

</ul>
<ul>
<li type="square"> <font color=red><b>THIS JUST IN:</font></b> Bart Smith, our feature presenter on Friday night, has just finished his several yearslong journey of becoming the first person in history to have hiked all 11 of our National Scenic Trails and is on his way back East for the ALDHA Gathering. You can read about the completion of his his trek and find out more about him and this magnificent accomplishment in a <a href="http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/outdoors/2009991831_trailguy03m.html">story published Saturday in The Seattle Times</a>. This coming weekend -- at the <a href="gathring.htm">Gathering</a> -- will be Bart�s first public appearance since the end of his trek, and he will be, quite literally, fresh off the trail.<br>
</ul>
<ul>
<li type="square"> Gettysburg is gearing up for the 150th anniversary of its Famous Fight in four years (2013), and it�s taking some steps now to spruce itself up for the big observance. Check out this story from the Detroit Free Press with details on some of the things that have already been done in town, and what is new since our last ALDHA Gathering at Gettysburg two years ago: <a href="http://www.fredericknewspost.com/sections/art_life/display_TravelOutdoors.htm?storyID=95821">Gettysburg Upgraded for Anniversary</a>

</ul><br>
<br>
<font size="4" color=red>Week ending Oct. 3, 2009 ...</font>

<ul>
<li type="square"> We�ve lost all the information that was on this page. Uggh... But here�s what you need to know... There are updates being posted on the following pages as we get closer to the Gathering, which is coming up in just over a week. So please check back frequently. We will attempt to rebuild this page as best we can ... AFTER the Gathering.  <br>

<br>
<li type="disc"> <a href="gathring.htm">GATHERING PAGE</a><br>
Including updates on what you�ll find in your registration packet; and what the Class of "A.T.9" is doing to celebrate its 20th anniversary.<br>
<br>

<li type="disc"> <a href="rides.htm">RIDE BOARD</a><br>

There are new ride & rider requests, including one posted Saturday from someone about to finish a thru-hike in the Shenandoahs who would like to celebrate at the Gathering.<br>
<br>
<li type="disc"> <a href="09prog.htm">PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS</a> <br>
<br>
<li type="disc"> <a href="09work_trip.htm">POST-GATHERING WORK TRIP</a> 
</ul>

<br>
<ul>
<li type="square"> <b><font color=red>VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:</b></font> We need to recruit some free hands on Thursday night before the Gathering to help stuff the registration packets. If you can arrive early for the Gathering, on Thursday, you can pitch your tent at the campsite but only if you help us out in the early evening. We will likely head to the college to do the work, since we need tables and chairs to do it right.  <br>
<br>
<br>
</ul>




-->









<!--
<ul><ul>
<BR>
<BIG>
Everyone,   With great sadness we share with you news of Walkin' Jim Stoltz's death.  Jim died 
at midnight Saturday night.  His best friend and former wife Leslie was with him. <BR><br>

 Jim's health status, including organ failure and extreme difficulty in 
breathing, deteriorated very very rapidly.  <BR><br>

 Jim's two sisters and brother are en route to Helena .  The shortness of time 
simply did not allow them to make travel arrangements and complete their journey 
before Jim died.  Jim's inordinately quick death leaves all of us somewhat 
stunned but such is the nature of cancer.   <BR><br>

Jim had a great day on Friday.  He laughed with those fortunate enough to spend 
time with him and inspired us as we looked out on a magnificent blue sky and the 
beautiful Big Belt Mountains . Jim loved the fellowship and deeply valued being 
part of our community. He was very fond of all of you and found great comfort in 
your company.  Your warmth and welcome gave Jim the community he always wanted 
and found in the fellowship.  <BR><br>

 Jim was beloved by all of us and the thousands of children and others with whom 
he shared his deep understanding, profound respect, and unconditional love of 
nature.  <BR><br>

Jim's body is being cremated per his wishes.   A memorial service involving the 
fellowship is in the offing.  As you know, numerous tasks come with Jim's death 
and will be attended to in the coming days.  Of course, we will keep you 
apprised as things evolve.  <BR><br>

All of you made a wonderful difference in Jim's life as he did in ours.  We know 
that Jim's music and friendship will live on in our memories as we turn now to 
celebrating Jim's life. Be gentle with yourselves and others.  <BR><br>

 <BR>
Peg and Patrick  <BR>
 Leslie <BR>
Sept. 5, 2010<br></big>

 </ul></ul>
<br>
<br>
<br>
-->






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