              |
President's Letter Dear Members and Friends: At this time last year I appealed for you to help the Randolph Mountain Club cope with the terrible ice storm which had just devastated the Randolph area. Much of our 100-mile trail network was rendered impassable, and the situation looked pretty bleak. Thanks to you, the Club was able to overcome this extraordinary challenge! I am delighted to report that RMC members and friends gave us overwhelming support -- both by giving generously and by volunteering in force -- and that we fully restored our trail system, even though large sections of forest will bear the marks of this storm for years to come. Fortunately, in addition to clearing literally thousands of blowdowns, the RMC was able to complete its full agenda for the year. An early challenge grant from the Randolph Foundation gave the board the confidence to act swiftly in hiring a special crew to work on the trails as soon as the snow was off the ground. Gifts from members and friends -- over $26,000 -- far exceeded expectations. We were also able to secure disaster-relief funds from the U.S. Forest Service, as well as a hand in some trail clearing. Special recognition should go to Doug Mayer, a board member who already donates significant time and energy to the Club, for our success in dealing with the storm's destruction, as well as the many volunteers who dragged brush on a number of weekends. We're looking forward to the coming year and hope you feel that your Club is being well managed. We thank you for your tremendous support last year, but hasten to ask that you continue to pay your dues and, if possible, add a donation to assist the Club in its work. Gifts continue to be an important part of our annual budget. Thanks for your help and enthusiasm, |
