REI COMMUNITY CALENDAR ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR FEBRUARY

SANDY CITY - The following presentations are offered free of charge to the public at the Sandy City REI store. REI is located at 10600 South & 230 West in the northwest corner of the South Towne Mall property. For more information, please call (801) 501-0850 or visit our website at www.rei.com and use the store locator feature.

SNOWSHOE 101
Thursday, February 5th, 7pm
The ease of snowshoeing has led it to become one of the fastest growing sports in the country. Simply strap on a pair and go on a winter hike, backpack, or climb. Join REI experts, as they put on another of our famous “how to” clinics on the basics of snowshoeing. This presentation will also focus on the appropriate selection of gear and the initial skills needed to get you outside and on the trails. If you have ever thought about getting into snowshoeing, this is a great introduction to the sport!

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC MAP & GPS CLINIC
Thursday, February 19th, 7pm
Jeff Caulfield of National Geographic will show you, step-by-step, how to use your GPS with TOPO! Outdoor Recreation mapping software to plan your next day hike or backcountry adventure. As Jeff takes you through a simple trip-planning exercise, he'll discuss the "on the trail" applications of GPS, and give you a variety of tips on how to use a GPS in the navigation process. You'll be surprised at how easy GPS navigation can be! Everyone who attends will a special “Buy One Get One Free” offer as well as a free CD, Basic Map and GPS Skills, courtesy of National Geographic.

GPS 101
Thursday, February 26th, 7pm
A Global Positioning System is a fun and accurate tool that can help you navigate through backcountry terrain or even down city streets. Join REI navigation expert Nick Faust as he unveils the mysteries of this fun and fascinating piece of technology. This presentation will cover an introduction to the GPS system, types of receivers and their common use, and basic GPS functions. An excellent primer for people looking to get started with GPS use.

SALT LAKE CITY - The following presentations are offered free of charge to the public at the Salt Lake City REI store. REI is located at 3285 East & 3300 South. For more information, please call 486-2100 or visit our website at www.rei.com and use the store locator feature.

CLIMBING EVEREST
Tuesday, February 3rd, 7pm
What does it take to climb Everest, the world's highest mountain? Super powers? Youth? Luck? An iron will? Sponsors with deep pockets? Carol Masheter, AKA the SilverFox, will show pictures and answer questions about the climb of a lifetime. Carol has been climbing big, glaciated peaks since 1972, including Aconcagua in January, 2007, Kilimanjaro in December, 2007, Cho Oyu in 2005 and over a dozen glaciated peaks in Bolivia, Ecuador and East Africa.

BACKCOUNTRY SKIING UTAH & BEYOND
Thursday, February 5th, Noon
Join Backcountry Skiing Utah author and Utah Mountain Adventures senior guide, Tyson Bradley, for an evening of ski touring throughout the great state of Utah and beyond. Tyson will share images and stories from off-piste ski adventures in the Tushars, La Sals, Uintas, Logan Mountains, Stansburys, Deep Creeks, Abajo, Henrys, and more. In addition, the speaker will whet skiers appetites for spring skiing in the Cascade Volcanoes, Colorado, Wheeler Peak, NV, Alaska Range and the Tetons. A Q & A session will follow the talk, for those who want information on particular trips.

ALTA – 70 YEARS AS A SKIING MECCA
Tuesday, February 10th, 7pm at REI SLC
Skiing historian, National Ski Hall of Fame member, author and director of Skiing at Alta, Alan Engen, will recount the significant milestones – and the major players – of the evolution of the sport in Utah. Alan’s presentation will discuss the dynamics which drove Alta to change from a mining town to a ski town, the principles involved, and the role Alta has played in contributing to the skiing on the national scene, as well as its contribution to Utah’s envied status as a skiing paradise.


COMMUNITY & REI SPONSORED EVENTS:

TUBBS ROMP TO STOMP
Saturday, February 7th, 10am
Since 2003, Tubbs Snowshoe presented the Tubbs Romp to Stomp out Breast Cancer Snowshoe Series - a snowshoe walk series modeled after the highly successful Race for the Cure - to benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure and its Affiliates. Since then the Romp to Stomp has raised nearly three quarters of a million dollars for Susan G. Komen and Affiliates and inspired thousands of to get out snowshoeing! The Romp consists of a 3K or 5K benefit snowshoe walk or a 3k fun run. Easy, well marked trails along with free snowshoe demos from Tubbs make this a great event for all sorts of ages and abilities- even if you've never snowshoed before! Mountain Dell Golf Course located just off of I-80 in Parley's Canyon $25 Early Pre-Registration. Visit www.tubbsromptostomp.com for more information or to register.

BRYCE CANYON WINTERFEST
February 15th, 16th & 17th
Takes place at Bryce Canyon at Ruby's Inn. Activities include cross country ski races, archery clinic, archery biathlon competition. Free snowshoe tours, free clinics in photography, snow sculpture, kids' events, offer entertainment for the entire family. Events may be subject to change due to snow and weather conditions. Call (435) 834-5341 or 1-866-866-6616 for more information.

BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL TOUR
February 23rd, 24th & 25th 7pm at Kingsbury Hall
You’ll be on the edge of your seat as you watch extreme athletes scale towering peaks, plummet down cliffs, kayak through man-devouring rivers, and travel the world in search of the best stories of outdoor feats and adventures. Presented by National Geographic and New Balance, it’s your best route to a virtual adrenaline rush and a personal introduction to remote cultures and the world’s last great wild places — all on the big screen. Tickets are available for $8 at REI Salt Lake City and the University of Utah Outdoor program. Call 581-7100 for more information.


CLASSES: The following educational opportunities are hosted by REI and available for a fee.

AMERICAN AVALANCHE INSTITUTE LEVEL I AVALANCHE CLASS
February 13th-15th
This course presents basic information about weather, snowpack, and terrain factors which contribute to avalanche hazard. Students dig snow pits, identify weak and strong layers, and practice route finding. The Level I Course begins with an evening session, and then two full days with emphasis on field work. Level I classes involve 24 hours of classroom time and field work. Evening sessions run from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Tuition is $200. Visit www.avalanchecourse.com for more information or register by calling REI at 801-486-2100.

UTAH MOUNTAIN ADVENTURES LEVEL II AVALANCHE CLASS
February 19th-22nd
Instruction includes reviewing and expanding upon material learned in Level I. Learning to identify snow crystal types and processes leading to them; how to record and interpret information gained from snow pits, stability tests, weather and other factors contributing to snow strength. Practice complex, multiple-beacon rescues. Description: This 32-hour American Avalanche Association sanctioned course is oriented toward towards those who have taken a Level I, or equivalent course, and have significant backcountry experience under their belt. Ski patrollers, winter search and rescue personnel, mountain guides, and other serious winter mountain travelers often enroll in this intensive class. Classroom session will be held at REI Salt Lake City Thursday and in Alta Friday & over the weekend. Field sessions will be in the backcountry surrounding Alta. Register by calling Utah Mountain Adventures at 801-550-3986 or visit www.exum.ofutah.com. Tuition is $340.


MEETINGS:
The following organizations offer presentations that are free & open to the public and all interested parties are encouraged to attend. Location is REI Salt Lake City’s Wasatch Conference Room.

TEAM IN TRAINING
Monday, February 2nd, 6pm
We will help you to accomplish the goal of completing an endurance event! Come learn how you can help save lives while training to complete a Full or Half Marathon, an Olympic Distance Triathlon, a Century Bike Ride or an Adventure Hike on the Grand Canyon. Team In Training is the world's largest endurance training program and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's largest fundraising campaign. We provide professional coaching, a fantastic team atmosphere, transportation, accommodations and race entry to the team event and the opportunity to make a difference; in your own life and the lives of others. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Mission is to: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, non Hodgkin's disease and myeloma and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Call 801-519-6600 for more information or visit www.teamintraining.org.

UTAH NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY
Wednesday, February 4th, 7pm
The Utah Native Plant Society is dedicated to the appreciation, preservation, conservation and responsible use of the native plant and plant communities found in the state of Utah and the Intermountain West. Our goal is to foster public recognition of the spectacularly diverse flora of the state-a natural treasure to be valued, respected and protected. http://www.unps.org/index.html

UTAH STATEWIDE ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY
Wednesday, February 11th, 7pm
The Utah Statewide Archaeological Society (USAS) is an organization conceived for the individual who is curious about or wants to learn more about archaeology and the state’s prehistoric cultures. It is dedicated to the study and preservation of Utah’s past. http://utaharchaeology.org/

REI To Celebrate 15th Annual National Trails Day With Local Projects

Together with the Mountain Trails Foundation, Sandy Parks & Recreation, Cottonwood Canyons Foundation, Volunteers of Outdoor Utah and the National Forest Service, REI’s Utah- based stores have chosen the Rocky Mouth and Granite Trails in Sandy and the Historic Union Pacific Trail running from in Park City to Echo Reservoir as the locations for its 2007 service projects. In conjunction with National Trails Day, volunteers are invited to join the trail maintenance effort on June 2nd, 2007. This represents REI’s 15th year coordinating volunteers for National Trails Day projects in Utah. National Trails Day, held the first Saturday of every June, is a nationwide celebration of trails. With close to 1,500 events hosted by trail clubs, conservation organizations, agencies, and businesses, National Trails Day is America's largest celebration of the outdoors.

REI Sandy will be partnering with local non- profit organizations Volunteers of Outdoor Utah, the Cottonwood Canyons Foundation, and the U.S. Forest Service to help restore and prevent erosion in two cherished Wasatch Front Trails. The Granite trail in Little Cottonwood Canyon provides access to the spectacular Bell’s Canyon and the Rocky Mouth trail which offers a short family friendly hike ending at a picturesque waterfall.

REI Salt Lake City will be working with the Mountain Trails Foundation on the Historic Union Pacific Trail, which was recently granted National Recreation Trail status by the US Department of the Interior. The trail traverses areas rich in cultural history; stretching from the Wasatch Mountains near Park City, across several wetland meadows in Silver Canyons through the towns of Wanship and Coalville and along the Weber River to Echo Reservoir.

For more information, contact Eric Spreng at REI in Salt Lake City, phone (801) 486-2100. For directions to the work sites, visit www.rei.com and click on the stores and events link or visit www.americanhiking.org for a complete list of volunteer projects in the area. Please see event details below.

GRANITE & ROCKY MOUTH TRAIL MAINTENANCE
Event Details: Volunteers will meet at 8:00am and will be treated to a light breakfast. Crew leaders will give an orientation and safety instruction talk, and work will commence at 8:30am and continue until noon. Lunch will be provided and every volunteer will receive an REI volunteer tee shirt. All supplies, tools and work gloves will be provided.
Where: The Granite Trailhead in Sandy City at 3470 East Little Cottonwood Canyon Road. To get there, travel east on 9000 S to Wasatch Blvd. Continue East through the traffic light at Wasatch Boulevard. The trailhead is located 100 yards on the right hand side of the road. Ages sixteen or over please.
Time: Saturday, June 2nd, 8:00a.m.
On site coordinator: Kristen Kenley (801) 725-8220
Web site: www.rei.com/trailsday
Advance Registration: Required- please call REI Sandy at (801) 501-0850 for details or email kkenley@rei.com

WORKIN’ ON THE RAIL TRAIL
Event Details: Park City. Join us at 9am for Starbuck’s coffee, bagels, and a special presentation commemorating the Historic Union Pacific Rail Trail. Participants are then invited to bike a thirteen- mile stretch of the trail to Wanship, or meet the work party there via driving. Mountain Trails Foundation will provide tools for weeding and fence work at the Wanship trailhead. A full lunch from the Spring Chicken Inn will be served at 12:30. All participants will receive a unique event Tee shirt. All ages welcome!
Where: Meet at the Trailhead at Rail Central White Pine Touring on Bonanza. To get there, take 1-80 to Kimball Junction, 22 to Kearns Blvd, turn right on Bonanza. The Wanship Trailhead can be reached by taking I-80 to the Wanship Exit. Follow the signs from there.
When: Saturday, June 2nd, 9:00am
On site coordinator: Eric Spreng (801) 703-1584
Web site: www.rei.com/trailsday or www.mountaintrails.org
Advance Registration: Not Required

REI COMMUNITY CALENDAR ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR MAY

SANDY CITY - The following presentations are offered free of charge to the public at the Sandy City REI store. REI is located at 10600 South & 230 West in the northwest corner of the South Towne Mall property. Due to construction, the 106^th mall entrance is closed. The mall can be accessed at 104^th and State St or at 100^th South. For more information, please call (801) 501-0850 or visit our website at www.rei.com and click on the stores & events link. Attendance is limited to fifty participants on a first- come first- served basis.

ADVENTURE TRAVEL TO MAGICAL COSTA RICA

Thursday, May 10^th, 7pm

For years you've probably heard friends rave about Costa Rica: its natural beauty, wildlife, friendly people, reasonable prices, erupting volcanoes, beautiful beaches, and the mysterious rainforests. You know what? It's all true! It's hard to imagine that there can be such diversity in landforms and wildlife in such a small country, but you'll soon be telling your friends about that amazing place called Costa Rica.

ORIENTEERING

Thursday, May 17^th, 7pm

Learn to navigate using a map and compass to find checkpoints in this fun outdoor sport suitable for all ages and abilities! Instruction begins in the classroom with basic concepts such as orienting the map, choosing routes, and using handrails and catching features before culminating in a practical exercise outside the store on a simple map. Bring a compass if you have one or borrow one from the instructor. Instructor Ed White first tried orienteering twenty years ago and has been hooked ever since He has competed throughout the US and Canada and is the current U.S. Champion in the Men's 40-44 age group

ROCK CLIMBING 101

Thursday, May 24^th, 7pm

If you are ready to learn the ropes in one of this country's fastest growing sports, then this is the evening for you! Topics will include an overview of climbing, equipment, safety, and training. REI Climbing Gurus offer this primer on Rock Climbing.

SALT LAKE CITY - The following presentations are offered free of charge to the public at the Salt Lake City REI store. REI is located at 3285 East & 3300 South. For more information, please call 486-2100 or visit our website at www.rei.com and click on the stores & events link and select Salt Lake City.

DANCE ACROSS THE MOUNTAINS

Tuesday, May 15^th, 7pm

Dance Across the Mountains is an incredible photographic journey through the eyes of professional nature photographer Jeffrey Ambrose. This journey spans the vast mountain regions of Alaska, Canada, Montana, Utah and more. Come enjoy this epic journey through some of the most beautiful landscapes in western North America. Jeffrey Ambrose was born and raised in the embrace of the Wasatch Mountains near Salt Lake City, Utah. He has been photographing the wild lands of North America for many years. His photographic focus is to capture more than just images, but to capture the feelings and moods associated with his experiences.

BACKPACKING SKILLS FOR YOUTH

Wednesday, May 16th, 7pm

How do you prevent your hiking boots from causing blisters? What is the best way to load up your pack? What do you do if you encounter a moose on the trail? For answers to these questions and more, join the experts from REI tonight for some fun and useful tips on backpacking and camping. This evening's presentation, designed for the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts, will cover the ins and outs of gear essentials such as packs, tents, sleeping bags, stoves, footwear, and clothing layers. A special section titled "Respect It!" will highlight the seven principles of Leave No Trace outdoor ethics. Families, youth groups and scout troops are encouraged to attend!

GPS 101

Tuesday, May 22^nd, 7pm

A Global Positioning System is a fun and accurate tool that can help you navigate through backcountry terrain or even down city streets. Join REI navigation expert John Higgins as he unveils the mysteries of this fun and fascinating piece of technology. This presentation will cover basic GPS functions such as determining latitude and longitude, programming routes, and recording travel.

SPECIAL EVENTS AT REI:

UTAH NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY PLANT SALE

Saturday, May 12^th, 9am

Spruce up you house and yard with drought tolerant indigenous plants! Purchase your native perennials, cacti, trees, and shrubs available for sale. 10% of the proceeds will benefit the Salt Lake Chapter of UNPS. Sale runs 9am until 4pm at REI in Salt Lake City or as supplies last. The Utah Native Plant Society is dedicated to the appreciation, preservation, conservation and responsible use of the native plant and plant communities found in the state of Utah and the Intermountain West. Their goal is to foster public recognition of the spectacularly diverse flora of the state-a natural treasure to be valued, respected and protected.

REI ADULT CLIMBING NIGHT

Thursday, May 17^th, 6:30pm-8:30pm

We would like to invite you to attend Adults-only (16 & up) climbing night at the Salt Lake City REI store. This is a perfect opportunity for beginners as well as experienced climbers to climb our one-of-a-kind wall on routes ranging from 5.5 to 5.13 in difficulty. You are welcome to invite your friends & family to attend. Please RSVP via email to espreng@rei.com so that as many of our REI certified belayers are available as necessary. Climbing harnesses of all sizes will be available at no charge, and climbing shoes can be rented for the evening at the low cost of only $2.00. Whether you are looking to start climbing, train for next summer, or meet people with similar interests come enjoy an evening of climbing & camaraderie with your friends at the Salt Lake City REI.

COMMUNITY EVENTS:

INTERMOUNTAIN CUP SERIES: SHOWDOWN AT 5-MILE PASS



Saturday, May 5^th, 9am

Experience the Intermountain Cup: The classic Mountain Bike Race Series of the Intermountain West! The 13th Annual Showdown at Five Mile Pass is presented by Racers Cycle Service. This race is fantastic for spectators and racers. Experience winding double track loops course. REI will be on hand to provide a hydration station and prizes for winners in different categories. http://www.intermountaincup.com

UTA RIDESHARE BIKE BONANZA

Friday, May 18^th, 4pm

Music, food, prize drawings, free bike tune ups, activities for kids and much more! This year the Bike Bonanza is happening in conjunction with the Downtown Alliance's. Join us at the Gallivan Center (239 S. Main Street) from 4:00-9:00 p.m. Pick up your registration packet for the Salt Lake Century Ride at the event too. Cost: free. Visit www.utarideshare.comfor event updates.

THE SALT LAKE CENTURY RIDE

Saturday, May 19th, 7:30am

The Cycle Salt Lake Century, Inc., a not-for-profit organization, is proud to sponsor this twentieth annual recreational bicycle event that features your choice of 33, 67 or 100 mile routes. Your entry fee will assist the Mayor's Bicycle Advisory Committee to build and maintain bicycle routes and trails and promote bicycle advocacy in Utah. All riders will depart from and return to the Utah State Fair Park. All routes head north with the 67 and 100 mile routes traveling to Antelope Island. All cyclists are welcome. This is a non-competitive event. The 33 mile option is the perfect route for a family, parent with a child or the first timer to an organized bicycle event. Entry fee is $40.00 pre-registered or $45.00 day-of event. Registration fee includes lunch, food and drink at the rest stops and a commemorative short sleeved T-shirt. www.cyclesaltlakecentury.com.

INTERMOUNTAIN CUP SERIES: 2ND ANNUAL STAN CRANE MEMORIAL

Saturday, May 28^th, 9am

Experience the classic mountain bike race series of the Intermountain West! The Stan Crane Memorial is presented by Revolution Mountain Sports. This course features full-on XC racing right in your back yard of fun, tight single-track & climbing on a wide dirt road. 1,100 vertical per lap! REI provides the Hydration Station & prizes for winners in different categories. http://www.intermountaincup.com

CLASSES:

STAY SAFE IN THE OUTDOORS: BASIC WILDERNESS LIFE SUPPORT CLASS

Saturday, May 19^th 9:30am & Saturday, May 26^th 9:30am

Created for all outdoor enthusiasts, the Basic Wilderness Life Support® certification is a one day course designed to help you prevent and treat injuries and illnesses common in outdoor activities. Developed at the University of Utah, School of Medicine the course will teach you to prepare for your outing, assess injuries and scene safety, decide whether to evacuate or treat a patient, and methods of evacuation. The curriculum was developed from our advanced course used to train medical professionals and will be taught by one of our certified instructors. The course includes morning lectures at REI and an afternoon outdoors (weather permitting) participating in hands on scenarios. At the end of the day you will receive your BWLS certificate. Cost is $95 per person. Please register by calling REI's customer service department at (801) 486-2100. http://www.bwls.org

REI COMMUNITY CALENDAR ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR APRIL

SANDY CITY - The following presentations are offered free of charge to the public at the Sandy City REI store. REI is located at 10600 South & 230 West in the northwest corner of the South Towne Mall property. For more information, please call (801) 501-0850 or visit our website at www.rei.com and click on the stores & events link. Attendance is limited to fifty participants on a first- come first- served basis.

PARAGLIDING
Thursday, April 5th, 7pm
Interested in catching a bird’s eye view of the world below? Want to breathe the air at 18,000 feet without climbing a mountain? Come learn about the increasingly popular sport of paragliding. Ken Hudon Jorgenson, this year’s host of the U.S. Paragliding Nationals, presents this evening’s clinic on soaring the skies without mechanized aid. Tonight’s show will include a video presentation that includes footage and discussion of aerobatics and competitions. Ken will also provide the answer to the following questions; what is Sky Camping? How is it possible to reach 18,000 feet and travel 50 to 200 miles? How does one get started? And how does a paraglider pilot become more of a three-dimensional being.

MOUNTAIN BIKING FOR WOMEN
Thursday, April 12th, 7pm
Did you spend the winter dreaming of charging up and down the Wasatch Front trails on two wheels? Join Kari Gillette, local mountain bike enthusiast and racer, to discuss the basics of mountain biking and how much fun you can have in your back yard! This clinic is geared toward women specific mountain biking and will be covering: the basics of the bike, maintenance, clothing, nutrition and local trails and events

THE GREATER YELLOWSTONE ECOSYSTEM
Thursday, April 19th, 7pm
There have been numerous success stories in the conservation of wildlife populations in the Greater Yellowstone Region. Recovery of grizzly bears, wolves, elk, trumpeter swans, bison and other species stand out as examples of the results of diligent conservation efforts. Join Doug Wachob, Director of the Conservation Research Center of Teton Science Schools in Jackson Wyoming, this evening as he recounts the details of these conservation successes and the challenges that lie ahead via images of the animals in their habitat and information about the status of their populations.

GPS 101
Thursday, April 26th, 7pm
A Global Positioning System is a fun and accurate tool that can help you navigate through backcountry terrain or even down city streets. Join REI navigation expert Craig Whetman as he unveils the mysteries of this fun and fascinating piece of technology. This presentation will cover basic GPS functions such as determining latitude and longitude, programming routes, and recording travel.


SALT LAKE CITY - The following presentations are offered free of charge to the public at the Salt Lake City REI store. REI is located at 3285 East & 3300 South. For more information, please call 486-2100 or visit our website at www.rei.com and click on the stores & events link and select Salt Lake City.

LEAVE NO TRACE: EDUCATION IN MOTION
Monday, April 2nd, 7pm
Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, a non-profit organization dedicated to building awareness, appreciation, and above all, respect for public recreation areas, is partnering with REI to promote responsible recreation and environmental stewardship. Come join Traveling Trainers, Team West, North Moench and Ella Goodbrod, for a fun and educational experience. The evening will include a slideshow of their travels across the US in 2006 and 2007. You will learn more about the history, skills and ethics and how to teach others about the Leave No Trace program.

COTTONWOOD, ASPEN, & BUTTERFLIES: ADDICTED TO LARGE PREDATORS?
Tuesday, April 3rd, 7pm
Surprising things happen when wolves or cougars disappear from a landscape. Dr. Robert Beschta, Oregon State University Emeritus Professor of Forest Hydrology, will present outcomes from his current field research in Yellowstone and Zion National Parks, which is revealing how loss of large predators is linked to loss of riparian and stream functioning in the West. Dr. Beschta will speak at 7 p.m. on April 2 in Moab (Moab Information Center; Center and Main) and April 3 in Salt Lake City (REI at 3285 E and 3300 S).

BACKPACKING SKILLS FOR YOUTH
Thursday, April 5th, 7pm
How do you prevent your hiking boots from causing blisters? What is the best way to load up your pack? What do you do if you encounter a moose on the trail? For answers to these questions and more, join the experts from REI tonight for some fun and useful tips on backpacking and camping. This evening’s presentation, designed for the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts, will cover the ins and outs of gear essentials such as packs, tents, sleeping bags, stoves, footwear, and clothing layers. A special section titled “Respect It!” will highlight the seven principles of Leave No Trace outdoor ethics. Families, youth groups and scout troops are encouraged to attend!

PARAGLIDING
Tuesday, April 10th, 7pm
Interested in catching a bird’s eye view of the world below? Want to breathe the air at 18,000 feet without climbing a mountain? Come learn about the increasingly popular sport of paragliding. Ken Hudon Jorgenson, this year’s host of the U.S. Paragliding Nationals, presents this evening’s clinic on soaring the skies without mechanized aid. Tonight’s show will include a video presentation that includes footage and discussion of aerobatics and competitions. Ken will also provide the answer to the following questions; what is Sky Camping? How is it possible to reach 18,000 feet and travel 50 to 200 miles? How does one get started? And how does a paraglider pilot become more of a three-dimensional being.


REI SPECIAL EVENTS:

BIKE BONANZA AT REI SANDY
Saturday, April 14th, 11am-3pm
Get ready to roll into spring two wheeled style! On Saturday, April 14th, REI Sandy will feature free presentations by cycling experts on topics such as do-it-yourself bicycle maintenance, ride preparation, Fix–a–flat and more. Bike rodeo for kids, test rides and raffle prizes. Whether you’re an advanced rider looking to take your game to the next level, or just enjoy taking the kids out for rides on weekend through the neighborhood, the REI Bike Bonanza has something for you! Visit www.rei.com and click on the stores & events tab for a complete schedule.

REI ADULT CLIMBING NIGHT
Thursday, April 19th, 6:30pm-8:30pm
We would like to invite you to attend Adults-only (16 & up) climbing night at the Salt Lake City REI store. This is a perfect opportunity for beginners as well as experienced climbers to climb our one-of-a-kind wall on routes ranging from 5.5 to 5.13 in difficulty. You are welcome to invite your friends & family to attend. Please RSVP via email to espreng@rei.com so that as many of our REI certified belayers are available as necessary. Climbing harnesses of all sizes will be available at no charge, and climbing shoes can be rented for the evening at the low cost of only $2.00. Whether you are looking to start climbing, train for next summer, or meet people with similar interests come enjoy an evening of climbing & camaraderie with your friends at the Salt Lake City REI.


COMMUNITY EVENTS:

4TH STREET CLINIC TRIATHLON & 5K
Saturday, April 14th, 8am
Ride, Run & Swim at the U of U Campus, all for a good cause! Events include Individual Triathlon (300 yard swim, 8 mile MOUNTAIN bike, 5K run), Team Triathlon (teams of 2-3 people, same course & distances as individual triathlon) and 5K Run/Walk (strollers permitted). All proceeds benefit the 4th Street Clinic, providing health care for the homeless. Please visit http://umed.med.utah.edu/get%5Finvolved/clubs/homelessclinic/triathlon/index.html for more information and registration.

PURGE YOUR SPURGE! MYRTLE SPURGE/NATIVE PLANT EXCHANGE
April 14th & 21st, 10am-3pm
This April, don’t miss out on a great opportunity to purge your spurge and rid your garden of myrtle spurge (or as some call it donkey tail spurge) and receive free Utah native plants in exchange! Myrtle spurge (Euphorbia myrsinites) is a non-native, highly invasive, garden plant that is rapidly spreading in our foothills and canyons, crowding out the native vegetation. Join the Bonneville CWMA, the Great Salt Lake RC&D, and the Salt Lake Soil Conservation District, along with volunteers from the Intermountain Native Plant Growers Association and the Utah Native Plant Society, at REI in Salt Lake City as we work to protect our canyons by preventing the spread of myrtle spurge in our foothills. On April 14 & 21, 2007 bring your bagged myrtle spurge to REI at 3200 East 3300 South, where volunteers will be on hand to take your plants and give you up to five potted Utah native plants in exchange. In addition, receive a planting guide and learn about noxious and invasive species in Salt Lake and what you can do to help prevent their spread. For more information contact Salt Lake County Weed Program staff at 801-468-2861 or on the web at www.weeds.slco.org.

BEND-IN-THE-RIVER EARTH DAY PLANTING AND CELEBRATION
Saturday, April 21st, 8:30am
Plant trees, restore wetlands, welcome back native wildlife…celebrate the Earth and the Bend’s 10th year with people from throughout the community. Start the morning with a light breakfast, followed by planting, a tasty lunch, and the presentation of our community partner awards. REI will be leading children’s activities, and a variety of restoration opportunities will be available. Bend-In-The-River is located at 1030 West Fremont Avenue (1100 South). For more information please contact Tara Poelzing, Bend-in-the-River coordinator, at tpoelzing@sa.utah.edu or 801-587-9027 or visit www.bend-in-the-river.org

EARTH DAY CELEBRATION AT THE OGDEN NATURE CENTER
Saturday, April 21st, Noon to 4pm
Come celebrate Earth Day at Ogden Nature Center! Expect earth-friendly vendors, exhibitors, entertainment, food and activities. Explore the trails and visit the Dr. Ezekiel R. and Edna Wattis Dumke Picnic Grove and Treehouse, enjoy the view from the Willard L. Eccles Observation Tower at Avocet Pond, or just kick back and make new friends. Donations will be gratefully accepted. All proceeds will benefit the mission of Ogden Nature Center: to unite people with nature and nurture appreciation and stewardship of the environment. The event is $1 per person or FREE if you ride the bus or bike! The Ogden Nature Center is located at 966 West 12th Street, Ogden. Call Sabrina Foster at 801-621-7595 or visit www.ogdennaturecenter.org for more information.


CLASSES:

REI GPS NAVIGATION DAY
Saturday, April 17th, 9am-3pm
Spend a day with REI GPS experts in the classroom and in Parley’s Park to learn how to use your GPS unit in the field. Participants should have some familiarity with GPS and/or have attended REI’s GPS 101 evening clinic. You’ll practice finding your way from point A to point B, first establishing where you are, and then where you want to go. Learn route-finding skills, such as: how to transfer waypoints from your PC to your GPS unit, how to use the U.T.M. grid system vs. latitude and longitude coordinates, and how to create your own custom maps. Tuition is $15 for REI members, $30 for non-members, please sign up in person or by phone at our REI SLC location, 801-486-2100.


COMMUNITY GROUP MEETINGS & PRESENTATIONS

UTAH NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY
Wednesday, April 4th, 7pm
Amber Richman, USDA-APHIS-PPQ Biological Control will discuss various bio controls used on several invasive species in the state of Utah. She will talk about how bio controls are tested before being released and the impacts that they have on the environment. This talk is free and open to the public. The Utah Native Plant Society is dedicated to the appreciation, preservation, conservation and responsible use of the native plant and plant communities found in the state of Utah and the Intermountain West. Visit www.unps.org.

UTAH STATEWIDE ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY
Wednesday, April 11th, 7pm
The Utah Statewide Archaeological Society (USAS) is an organization conceived for the individual who is curious about or wants to learn more about archaeology and the state’s prehistoric cultures. Meetings and presentations are free of charge and open to the public. Visit www.utaharchaeology.org.

REI COMMUNITY CALENDAR ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR MARCH

SANDY CITY - The following presentations are offered free of charge to the public at the Sandy City REI store. REI is located at 10600 South & 230 West in the northwest corner of the South Towne Mall property. For more information, please call (801) 501-0850 or visit our website at www.rei.com and click on the stores & events link. Attendance is limited to fifty participants on a first- come first- served basis.


THE BASICS OF ICE CLIMBING

Thursday, March 1st, 7pm

This evening, Phil Schow from the Serac Club and Mat Gover, trainer and advanced ice climber, will be covering the basic skills and gear of technical ice climbing. In this presentation, they will feature; ice climbing equipment, the basics of beginning ice climbing technique, pro placement of ice screws, advanced ice and mixed climbing, safety issues, as well as highlighting local places to get out on the ice. Phil and Mat will also have some ice blocks so you can do some hands on placing of ice screws! A segment of "Comfortably Numb" a locally filmed and produced Ice Climbing movie will also be shown.



THE SPIRIT OF ADVENTURE TRAVEL

Thursday, March 8th, 7pm

Join adventurer Gary Scott as he shares slides, stories and video of his latest adventures from the four corners of the world. Hiking in the Alps and in Patagonia, parasailing in France, bungee jumping in New Zealand, rafting in Patagonia, zip-lining and exploring in Costa Rica and a ton of other exciting adventures. Gary will surely inspire you to get out there and see more of the world!



BASIC BIKE MAINTENANCE

Thursday, March 15th, 7pm

Maintaining your road or mountain bike can be a daunting task when you don’t know where to begin. Tonight’s presentation by REI shop techs will help to demystify the challenge of keeping your bicycle in good working order. By the end of the evening participants will be acquainted with the arts of flat tire repair, fine tune brake adjustment, and degreasing & lubrication.



HIKING THE WASATCH

Thursday, March 22nd, 7pm

Looking for a local hiking group where you can meet others and explore the Wasatch Front and more? Join Sheryl McGlochlin this evening to learn how she started this successful group four years ago and to see photos and hear stories of some of her favorite hikes.



SALT LAKE CITY - The following presentations are offered free of charge to the public at the Salt Lake City REI store. REI is located at 3285 East & 3300 South. For more information, please call 486-2100 or visit our website at www.rei.com and click on the stores & events link and select Salt Lake City.



BACKPACKING SKILLS FOR YOUTH

Tuesday, March 6th, 7pm

How do you prevent your hiking boots from causing blisters? What is the best way to load up your pack? What do you do if you encounter a moose on the trail? For answers to these questions and more, join the experts from REI tonight for some fun and useful tips on backpacking and camping. This evening’s presentation, designed for the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts, will cover the ins and outs of gear essentials such as packs, tents, sleeping bags, stoves, footwear, and clothing layers. A special section titled “Respect It!” will highlight the seven principles of Leave No Trace outdoor ethics. Families, youth groups and scout troops are encouraged to attend!



THE SPIRIT OF ADVENTURE TRAVEL

Tuesday, March 13th, 7pm

Join adventurer Gary Scott as he shares slides, stories and video of his latest adventures from the four corners of the world. Hiking in the Alps and in Patagonia, parasailing in France, bungee jumping in New Zealand, rafting in Patagonia, zip-lining and exploring in Costa Rica plus a ton of other exciting adventures. Gary will surely inspire you to get out there and see more of the world!


SKI TOURING THE ORTLER ALPS

Tuesday, March 20th, 7pm

If you are looking for an outstanding Alpine ski touring adventure in the Alps or an alternative to the often crowded Haute Route join Lincoln Clark of REI for the inside scoop on the Ortler traverse. The Ortles group of peaks is situated in between the Bernina group of St. Moritz to the west and the Dolomites to the west offer some outstanding ski mountaineering terrain. This tour offers fantastic glacial traverses combined with wonderful on ski descents. Several peaks close to 4000 meters offer an additional mountaineering challenge. The great skiing is only punctuated by the magical time in the huts or Refugio. Here we share the stories of our days adventures and enjoy a family dinning experience sampling the finest cuisine of Italy.


GPS 101

Thursday, March 22nd, 7pm

A Global Positioning System is a fun and accurate tool that can help you navigate through backcountry terrain or even down city streets. Join REI navigation expert John Higgins as he unveils the mysteries of this fun and fascinating piece of technology. This presentation will cover basic GPS functions such as determining latitude and longitude, programming routes, and recording travel.



THE SUPER SHERPA EXPEDITION OF EVEREST

Tuesday, March 27th, 7pm

Apa Sherpa, the man who has stood on the top of the world a record 16 times, and Lhakpa Gelu Sherpa, who has summitted Everest in the record time of 10 hours, 56 minutes, and 46 seconds have announced that they will be joining together to make a summit attempt this spring. Their talk at REI this evening will be their send- off presentation in anticipation of this historic event. Both men will speak tonight about their life stories, the crucial role Sherpas have played in extreme altitude mountaineering since Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa climbed Everest in 1953, as well as provide insight into Nepali culture & the recent changes in Nepali politics. A question and answer session will follow. This event is free and open to the public, and seating will be based on a first come first serve basis for 180 attendees.

REI SPECIAL EVENTS:

REI EMPLOYMENT OPEN HOUSE

Saturday, March 3rd, 11:00am

REI in Salt Lake City, one the world’s leading outdoor equipment retailers will be holding an Employment Open House on Saturday, March 3, 2007. The hour presentation begins at 11:00 a.m. Seasonal and part-time positions are available in Sales, Cashiering and Shop Services. Drop by to learn more about this exciting company. Applications will be accepted at this time. In 2007 REI placed #27 among the "100 Best Companies to Work for in America." in Fortune Magazine's Annual Survey. Please call (801)-486-2100 for more information.



REI ADULT CLIMBING NIGHT

Thursday, March 15th, 6:30pm-8:30pm

We would like to invite you to attend Adults-only (16 & up) climbing night at the Salt Lake City REI store. This is a perfect opportunity for beginners as well as experienced climbers to climb our one-of-a-kind wall on routes ranging from 5.5 to 5.13 in difficulty. You are welcome to invite your friends & family to attend. Please RSVP via email to espreng@rei.com so that as many of our REI certified belayers are available as necessary. Climbing harnesses of all sizes will be available at no charge, and climbing shoes can be rented for the evening at the low cost of only $2.00. Whether you are looking to start climbing, train for next summer, or meet people with similar interests come enjoy an evening of climbing & camaraderie with your friends at the Salt Lake City REI.



COMMUNITY EVENTS:

RADICAL REELS

Wednesday, March 14th, 7pm

Faster, steeper, higher, deeper - the Banff Mountain Film Festival Radical Reels tour is coming to Salt Lake City. Catch the steepest and deepest in high-adrenaline outdoor sport films when the 2007 Radical Reels Tour comes to Kingsbury Hall at the University of Utah. Growing out of the famous Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour, Radical Reels screens the best in action sports filmmaking, audience-tested and programmed for maximum excitement. Tickets are available at Kingsbury Hall, REI Salt Lake City and Sandy and The Outdoor Program and are $7.50. For more information on the Radical Reels tour, visit www.banffmountainfestivals.ca/radicalreels.


CLASSES:



WINTER WILDLIFE TRACKING

Saturday, March 24th & Sunday, March 25th

The vast and ever-present array of wild "signatures" scattered about our local landscapes offer us an underused encyclopedia of behavioral, ecological, and evolutionary information. Through the mind of an animal tracker, we can make discoveries about animal behavior, adaptation, and inter-species relationships. Learn about animals' feet and how they move, when and where they rest, what they eat, and how animals in the wild make a living in their own specific way. Indoor and field sessions focus upon wildlife adaptations, diversity, and sign types complemented by firsthand explorations of the animals' habitats on or off-trail in various uneven terrain. Field session will be done on snowshoes (provided by REI at no extra charge). Appropriate footwear, warm clothing, a day pack, lunch, and a filled water bottle will be needed for field sessions. Field guides and cameras welcome. Tuition is $75 per participant; proceeds benefit the Cottonwood Canyons Foundation. To register, please call REI at 486-2100 and ask to speak to our Customer Service department.



STAY SAFE IN THE OUTDOORS; WILDERNESS FIRST AID CLASS

Saturday, March 10th & 31st, 9am

Created for all outdoor enthusiasts, the Basic Wilderness Life Support® certification is a one day course designed to help you prevent and treat injuries and illnesses common in outdoor activities. Developed at the University of Utah, School of Medicine the course will teach you to prepare for your outing, assess injuries and scene safety, decide whether to evacuate or treat a patient, and methods of evacuation. The curriculum was developed from our advanced course used to train medical professionals and will be taught by one of our certified instructors. The course includes morning lectures at REI and an afternoon outdoors (weather permitting) participating in hands on scenarios. At the end of the day you will receive your BWLS certificate. Please register by calling REI’s customer service department at (801) 486-2100. Cost is $95 per person. For more information, please contact Bob Richards at AdventureMed, 801-990-2800 or visit www.bwls.org.



AVALANCHE AWARENESS CLASS

Friday & Saturday, March 9th & 10th

An introduction to rescue skills & avalanche beacon searches, route finding, snow pack evaluation and minimizing hazards. Cost is $99 per person. Please contact 801-550-EXUM (3986) or visit www.exum.ofutah.com for more information.



LEVEL 1 AVALANCHE COURSE

Friday March 23rd through Sunday March 25th

Learn safe travel in avalanche terrain; recognition of weather, snow pack and terrain factors contributing to avalanche hazard; dig snow pits and perform field tests to recognize weak and strong layers in snowpack and practice efficient rescue with avalanche beacons. Please contact 801-550-EXUM (3986) or visit www.exum.ofutah.com for more information.





COMMUNITY GROUP MEETINGS & PRESENTATIONS



UTAH NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY PRESENTS: DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY WILDFLOWER WORKSHOP

Wednesday, March 7th, 7pm

The Utah Native Plant Society is dedicated to the appreciation, preservation, conservation and responsible use of the native plant and plant communities found in the state of Utah and the Intermountain West. This evening, Ray Taggart, owner of Pixel’s Foto and Frame Shop in Sandy, will present a program on the fundamentals of digital photography and the applications of digital in wildflower photography. Following, Dr. Paul Zuckerman will give a brief presentation on the use of alternate lighting. This presentation is free and open to the public. Visit www.unps.org for more information.



UTAH STATEWIDE ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY PRESENTS: ANASAZI/FREMONT BIOLOGICAL AFFINITY

Wednesday, March 14th, 7pm

The Utah Statewide Archaeological Society (USAS) is an organization conceived for the individual who is curious about or wants to learn more about archaeology and the state’s prehistoric cultures. It is dedicated to the study and preservation of Utah’s past. This evening’s talk is titled Anasazi/Fremont Biological Affinity. Dr. Carlyle will discuss his dissertation work which consisted of extracting ancient DNA from several Anasazi (Ancestral Pueblo) museum specimens, utilizing variation in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) to discern temporal and geographical lineage stability among the Anasazi in prehistory. The comparison of Great Salt Lake Fremont with various Anasazi groups reveals close biological affinity between the two groups--a fact that should not be surprising given the strong correlation between the Anasazi and Fremont noted in the archaeological record. Meetings and presentations are free of charge and open to the public. Visit www.utaharchaeology.org.