Lively Evening of Socializing, Dancing, Awards and Conservation Talk at Berkshire Bash

Article and photos by Andrea Minoff

Incoming chair Martin Mahoney and outgoing chair Jan Nettler

More than 100 members and friends enjoyed an evening of chatting, pre-dinner jazz music, award presentations and an AMC executive speaker on conservation at the 2017 Berkshire Bash held on Saturday, November 4 at the Summit View Banquet House in Holyoke.

Outdoing chair Jan Nettler passed the gavel of leadership to incoming chair Martin Mahoney. Jan was recognized for her outstanding leadership, both on and off the trail. Mike Zlogar was named “Outstanding Volunteer of the Year”; Dee Dice was recognized for her contributions to the Family Programs and Martin Davenport for efforts on behalf of the mountaineering committee.

AMC Director of Research Susan Arnold, representing AMC Boston HQ, recapped the chapter’s past year which saw 60+ climbing activities, 51 conservation activities and 100+ hikes. In her presentation on conservation, she spoke about “focal areas” on the East Coast where ongoing conservation efforts and funds are directed; and called out the Land and Water Conservation Fund, the primary federal land protection program funded through revenues from offshore oil and gas leases. A key AMC initiative is trying to make sure that this fund becomes permanent and receives the correct funding as dictated by law.

The 2018 Slate of officers was elected. In addition to Chairman Mahoney, the slate includes Secretary Roger Beer, Treasurer Tricia O’Neil Hanrahan and Committee chairs below:

Appalachian Trail: Jim Pelletier
Berkshire Exchange: Nate Szymanski
Bicycling Co-chairs: Brant Cheikes and Janine Papesh
Conservation: Robert Cherdack
Family Programs: Margo Chapski
Membership/Social: Bess Dillman
Mountaineering Co-Chairs: Martin Davenport and Jim Van Natta
New England Trail Co-chairs: Heather Wyman and Dana Gronbeck
Outings/Hiking: Kathy Martin
Padding: Charles Murray
Training and Education: Bill Fogel
Webmaster: Evan Yeadon
Young Members: Nicole Dewberry

Vacant and seeking nominees are Vice-chair, communications coordinator and nominating committee chair. The Chapter is always looking for new volunteers, so contact any officers or committee chairs if you want to contribute to making the chapter active and vibrant! Thanks to all who helped make the dinner fun and successful.