Volume 10, Issue 1 Keep climbing mountains and don’t slip! March 2001

Beyond the MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL TIME It's Time Once Again front page: Forms enclosed, so send them in now! Submitted by Bob L.

Hello everyone. It's that time of Hinkhouse X-Country OSAT Style out the window at every- year again to renew your member- Articles Submitted by RbynSmith one having fun and being ship. You have until April until your —p. 2 This is a first-person ac- athletic, while I was name is removed from the Yodel trapped inside. Of course, Quick-Reference count of my attempt to mailing list, so act now. Check your —p. 3 learn cross-country skiing, the trap was of my own mailing label to see what your OSAT style: After washing making. status is. If it doesn’t say 2001 in Letters & BOTS —p. 4 out of the glacier climbing I have very little athletic the upper right corner you need to course last year, high- ability, and I don't learn a renew your dues. I have a request Calendar lighted by a near-death new skill the first time I when filling out your renewal forms. —p. 5 experience on the ice axe try. It takes me lots of Please take the time to fill out the Marketplace — p. arrest field trip and a repetition and practice to optional information on the back of 8 nightmare about being a be adequate. However, the the renewal form. The "Interests" frozen fish stacked in a desire to challenge and section is of special importance. crevasse, I wasn't sure I'd improve myself continues This will help us to plan activities by continue with my OSAT to outweigh the bad tracking the interest level for a membership. Once again, given activity and finding individuals ONE STEP AT (Continued on page 7) A TIME I'd be resigned to looking who are willing to be leaders. If you have already sent in your mem- (OSAT) Be Careful out there! bership renewal and didn't fill out MISSION: Submitted by Doug H. the optional information please take “To provide a For some of us it's early in the season, and we're in a hurry the time to fill it out and mail it in. clean and sober to get up and down the trail, trying to get the old heart rate environment for up. In the last week (2/20 & 2/22), King County Search & Everyone who wishes to par- members and Rescue has been dispatched to Tiger Mt. & Mt. Si respectively friends of 12-step ticipate in OSAT activities must recovery groups, to pick up injured hikers off of the trail. The subject on Tiger sign a new release form every to participate in Mt. slipped on the trail and broke his leg. The Mt. Si mission year. Be sure to sign the re- outdoor and social involved a 16 year old who slipped on ice near the top and lease form on the back of the slid into a tree, injuring his knee. I personally slipped on a events in the spirit membership form. of conservation, water bar coming down Tiger on 2/19 and jammed my preservation, and thumb in the process. It's easy to get complacent on benign, I look forward to seeing you out on ecology.” easy trails. Please take care out there! King County SAR sta- the trail! tistics show that our 2 highest percentage of SAR missions are on these to popular, yet seemingly easy trails.

My Rainier Climb The summit of Mt Rainier was like ter to the true summit was carved Submitted by Carol nothing I had been expecting. into the landscape like an alien The snow in the crater was frozen clay tunnel. And in this strange Five months of classes, field trips, into feather like structures some land I realized that I had the cour- and weekly hikes finally resulted yielding to my footfalls and some age, strength, and determination in a successful climb of Mt Rainier not. The sandy clay near the sul- that could carry me beyond any on July 28, 2000 at 6:00 am. I fur vents could have been found previous self-imposed limitations. stood 14,410 ft above the world in on a tropical island or some extra- a landscape that could of deco- It all started two days earlier terrestrial beach. The volcanic rated another planet, buffeted by when I stepped onto the stone steam vents created a haven from winds that nearly knocked me steps of Paradise that marked the the freezing winds that had fol- down, with a grin so large I felt beginning of our ascent. There lowed us all the way up from base my face had frozen into it. camp. The path through the cra- (Continued on page 6)

The Yodel v10.01, p. 1 Names and Recollections cietal memory that resides in the withdrawn because it abutted a wil- Submitted by Rik A. place names is faint indeed. Few who derness area, and research indicated board the Fauntleroy ferry think of the peak we chose as a substitute has When my father died this fall, among the family by that name who lived been known by four unofficial names the first of his possessions that I put near that bay, and for whom many of in the past. in a box to claim as my own was a the Olympics across the Sound are nondescript reference book, Lewis Many letters of support were sent to named. Fewer still stop to think that McArthur’s Oregon Geographic the Board from friends in OSAT, so all the “Chucks” around (White Chuck, Names. As a teenager I pored they got a true picture of how Jim's Pilchuck, Skookumchuck) spring from through its tiny print, reading the ob- ideas continue to affect the lives of that exciting period when Chinook scure history of names of places fa- people who never knew him. Thanks Jargon emerged as a way for people miliar and unknown throughout the to the support expressed by many, from a wide variety of cultures to state of my birth. I probably learned the Board and its chairman, Jennifer communicate as the Northwest more about the history of Oregon and Belcher, seemed genuinely impressed brought Native American and Euro- the Northwest from that book than with the impact Jim had on the Wash- pean cultures together. Nevertheless, from the several public school history ington climbing and recovery commu- the reality that geographic names courses I’d faked my way through. nities. Comments both on and off the provide a tangible and more-or-less record indicated that they believed The Middle Sister was my first 10,000 permanent link to the past has always Jim was extremely worthy of this ft peak. I delighted at the discovery interested me. honor. I think they voted for the that the Three Sisters actually had So, there was a great deal of personal proposal not simply because we met names (Faith, Hope, and Charity), lost satisfaction on December 8, when the their requirements for information and in disuse. I was fascinated to learn State Board on Geo- justification, but because they genu- the failed attempt to name the entire graphic Names unanimously accepted inely felt this was the right thing to do string of major Oregon and Washing- the application to name the peak on and they were pleased to be a part of ton peaks for American presidents. I the north side of Washington Pass it. was distressed to discover that “Hinkhouse Peak”. The location af- “mazama” was not a native American Your letters gave what one Board fords as dramatic a mountain vista as word, but Spanish for “goat”, and member told me was “a feeling I exists anywhere in the Cascades -- spread about the Northwest by the know him myself now.” When she with a fabulous view of some of the Oregon climbing club of the same volunteered that, it sent a chill most notable rock climbing peaks in name! Throughout the 35 years of through me. Since Jim’s death, I’ve the state. From all reports by the first living away from my parents, and become acutely aware of the role “the OSATers to visit the peak last Octo- away from Oregon, many visits vast structure of recollection” plays in ber, Hinkhouse Peak is a climb that “home” afforded quiet moments and distinguishing human-kind from other will appeal to day hikers and rock the opportunity to get lost again in species. The differentiating charac- climbers alike. vicarious travel back and forth across teristic is an ability to recognize and the state as I flipped through the This was a very satisfying project, as accept the reality of people and pages following some obscure train of it brought together a number of the events that occur outside of one’s though. loves in my life: geography & maps, own experience of time and space. climbing and climbing history, OSAT, Now the name “Hinkhouse Peak” en- Some of you will recall the series of and of course Jim himself. It has ters into that vast structure. “Mountain Monikers” published a few been a one and a half year labor of years back in the Yodel, a small at- It is with a combination of gratitude, love. There were some unexpected tempt to spread the lore of Washing- humility, and certainly a bit of pride challenges along the way. The nomi- ton contained in the names of peaks as well, that I share this accomplish- nation of a lesser peak had to be that OSAT climbs. The collective so- ment with OSAT. Thanks.

Trip Report: Hinkhouse Peak Lori U and Sam assembled at the trail- our goal. The slope was moderately Submitted by Lori U. head which was the viewpoint turnoff steep without a defined trail and just before the Pass. As the 8 adults, started out at what may have resem- The hikers drove the 3 1/2 hours the one 10 year old and one dog started bled a bushwhack except the bushes night before to Washington Pass, the trek across a large meadow, we were too low and sparse then the staying at various trailheads before could see our destination ahead, route turned toward bouldering and ultimately meeting 9am Sunday morn- peeking above the hilly horizon. talus, BUT..... not that nasty kind of ing to begin our journey to the top of talus that we all despise. This is defi- The air was crisp and clear. The sur- the 7,400ft+ Hinkhouse Peak. Dick nately do-able. rounding were W, Chris and Wendy N, Meredyth G., majestic as we made our way towards Pete S, Russel S, Chuck and Austin A, (Continued on page 6)

March, 2001 p. 2 OSAT QUICK-REFERENCE OSAT Telephone Numbers Board of Trusted Servants (BOTS) There are two main phone numbers for Meredyth G. 425-252-9131 [email protected] OSAT - a general information number, Dave S. 425-557-9931 [email protected] good for new members, and an Activi- Bob L. 206-310-2896 [email protected] ties Hotline Number, where members Charlie A. 253-852-5452 [email protected] can get up-to-the-minute activity infor- Mike R. 206-935-7689 [email protected] mation, as well as leave their own trip 12-Step Meeting Coordinators announcements. Karen C. 206-634-9459 [email protected] GENERAL INFORMATION: Art K. 206-323-7891 [email protected] 206.236.5848 Bill L. 206-789-8758 [email protected] ACTIVITIES HOTLINE: (206) 236-4777 (Use passcode 9674) Contact People When you call the hotline, enter pass- Activities: Lori U. 425-430-8738 [email protected] code 9674. Then follow the prompts... Activities Hotline: Lori U. 425-430-8738 [email protected] Finance: Charlie A. 253-852-5452 [email protected] Hotline Follow-up: Mara F. Handling the OSAT E-List: Tips Library: Rob E. 425-770-6722 [email protected] guaranteed to help you use the OSAT OSAT East Coast: John H. 617-641-3423 Email list effectively: Running: Doug H. 425-271-5116 [email protected] UNSUBSCRIBING: Safety: Dave N. 253-752-9214 [email protected] Send a blank email to: osat- Service: Grant & Susan E 206-721-5868 [email protected] [email protected] Yodel: Bill A. 206-789-8346 [email protected] SUBSCRIBING: Webmaster David C. (Dax) 206-623-7857 [email protected] Send a blank email to: osat- [email protected] POSTING: (Use discretion: remember OSAT Club Meeting: Monthly OSAT club meetings are held the second we ALL get the email.) Send your mes- Wednesday of the month at 7:30pm. sage to: [email protected]

OSAT 12-Step Meeting Locations: Tiger Mountain Time: Thursdays @ 7:30 pm & Sundays @ 10:00 am

Location: The Tiger Mountain Trailhead is on the south (right) side of the High “The relationship of height to Point Way Exit (1st exit east of Issaquah) off I-90. Make a reverse U-turn onto the road parallel with the Interstate. Park as close as possible to the west end of spirituality is not merely meta- the road to use the cable line trail, or in the upper parking lot to use the regular phorical, it is physical reality. trail (recommended for first-timers). Note: Call Karen for info on the Thursday The most spiritual people of night meeting — it switched to the Issaquah IHOP for Daylight Savings this planet live in the highest Time. The meetings resume on the mountain the first Thursday after DST places. So do the most spiritual ends in April. flowers...I call the high and Thursday Contact: Karen C. Sunday Contact: Art K. light aspects of my being spirit Notes: Newcomers should not try to find this meeting alone. We meet in the and the dark and heavy aspect trees just below the summit of West Tiger 3. The hike gains 2,000 feet in less soul. Soul is at home in the than 3 miles. Bring warm clothes and a flashlight for the evening meeting. deep shadowed valleys. Spirit is Carkeek Park Time: Mondays @ 7 pm a land of high, white peaks and Location: Take I-5 to Northgate, take the Northgate Way exit, and head west. glittering jewel-like lakes and Keep going past Hwy 99. When you cross Greenwood, Northgate Way changes flowers...People need to climb to Holman Rd. A block or two later, look for QFC, and travel through the park- the mountain not simply be- ing lot. You’ll find 100th and 6th. Park near there at the Carkeek Park trailhead cause it is there, but because the parking lot. The group meets there at 7 pm and then walks down together into the soulful divinity needs to be park. Notes: This park has a beautiful view of the Sound. Be sure to dress very mated with spirit.” warmly, and bring candle lanterns and headlamps, as it is dark and usually cold. If you drive, you can park down by the beach and the meeting starts when the — The 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet walkers get there, usually around 7:20pm. Contact: Bill L.

The Yodel v10.01, p. 3 LETTERS

December 6, 2000

Ann Forbes Executive Director Alcohol and Drug Helpline P. O. Box 1837 Seattle, Washington 98118-0317

Dear Ann:

Please find enclosed a check for $150.00 presented “In Memory of Jimmy Hinkhouse, Founder of OSAT”. “One Step At a Time” is a group be- gun in 1991 by Jimmy to teach recovering alcoholics and addicts about mountain climbing and mountaineering. There are now over two- hundred active members participating in various outdoors activities throughout the year. OSAT also supports three outdoor AA meetings each week as a direct result of Jim’s vision of recovery.

These funds are donated for the Volunteer Fund to provided whatever financial support you deem appropriate for your volunteers. The money was collected at the recent Holiday party of OSAT from a raffle of Jim Hinkhouse’s tent. The tent had been a gift to me from Jim’s daughter, Kym, after Jim’s death in 1995 while climbing Denali in Alaska.

If I can of further assistance, please let me know.

Sincerely, Karen E. Christensen

Cc: OSAT Yodel Newsletter

From the Safety Committee: If you have any concerns/suggestions about OSAT activities, please contact the Safety Committee Chairperson. Dave N. (253) 752-9214, [email protected]

From the BOTS of the email group are simple: · Any member of the osat yahoo- As the message says we are review- Our apologies for not keeping up on group may send a message to ing these guidelines and we are look- updates on our BOTS business meet- the group. Yahoogroups.com pro- ing for input. If you have any sug- ings. Look to see more information vides full confidentiality of group gestions please email them to coming on a regular basis. In the membership and email addresses. [email protected]. Look for more on last couple of months two issues (You may want to access Yahoo- this in the future. have come to light that we seek the groups privacy statement regarding input from the club. other confidentiality issues.) Another topic of interest that has · Responses go to the originator, not come up is the introductions at our At the January Club meeting there to the entire OSAT egroup. If you club meetings. It has come to our was a discussion on the proper use want to email the entire group, send attention that this is a concern for of the yahoogroups email list. A lot a message to osat@yahoogroups. some folks. How do you feel about of good discussion came from that com. Please do NOT use the Yahoo! the introduction part of the business and a main point that seemed to group for discussions, as some mem- meeting. Specifically when we iden- shine through was “Information not bers are not interested and would tify ourselves as “I’m __ and I’m an Opinions”. In the welcome mailing prefer to not have so many mes- ___”. Let us know how you feel. that goes out there are guidelines sages. Again, please email us at for usage. They are as follows: [email protected] or give us call. · Messages can only be read by

members of the OSAT yahoo!group. If you have any questions or con-

The OSAT Yahoo!group is for the ex- cerns about anything feel free to The OSAT BOTS will periodically re- clusive use of OSAT members to con- contact us. Our individual phone view the message traffic and other verse about club business, activities, numbers can be found on page 3. experiences with the Yahoo!group, and announcements pertinent to our and change policies as necessary to common interests in recovery and Your Board of Trusted Servants reflect what they understand to be mountaineering. Operating policies the group conscience.

March, 2001 p. 4 OSAT Traditions 1) Every OSAT activity has a designated leader. The leader Y2K OSAT EVENT CALENDAR makes the decision as to who is qualified for the activity. This decision must be based on principles and not personalities. Want to lead a trip? Call/Email it to 2) Alcohol and illegal drugs are not allowed on any OSAT activ- us and we’ll list it: [email protected] ity. 3) Party members are not to separate from the group without prior REGULAR OSAT EVENTS: permission of the activity leader. Dinner and a Movie: Third Friday of every month. 4) An OSAT leader should have completed a MOFA course or Call Bob L. for details 206-543-8142 ensure that at least one participant in the activity has done so.

5) When in a wilderness area, each party member will carry the 10 essentials. Rock Climbing: OSATers meet Tuesdays and Thurs- 6) Outdoor activities start with the Serenity Prayer while holding days from 5:00pm to 8:00pm at Vertical World in Seat- hands in a circle. tle for climbing. Call Vertical World for information on 7) Each OSAT glacier climb will have at least two rope teams that prices and equipment rentals. include a person with crevasse rescue training. 8) Anyone can volunteer to lead an activity, even a technical climb. As leader, you should be certain that everyone on that Mar. 3-4: Annual Tatoosh Snowshoe/Overnight. activity has signed a Release and Indemnity Agreement. As a Call Rik A. for more details 206-232-8908 participant, you may want to “qualify” your leader. 9) Party size for OSAT activities will adhere to the rules of the May 11: The Tooth #1, Call Sean W. for details appropriate jurisdiction. at 425-670-2542 (note: it’s a Friday)

June 1: The Tooth #2, Call Sean W. for details at 425-670-2542 (note: it’s a Friday) GREENLAKE RUN! If you love running, walking, rollerblading, or any June 23-24: Silver Star Mountain, Glacier and other form of exercise, we meet at Greenlake every 3rd class scramble in the North Cascades, limit 12, Wednesday, at 5:30 PM near the drinking fountains near the boathouse (on the south and slightly west side Call Sean Walsh for details at 425-670-2542 of the lake). Call Doug H (425) 271-5116 or Dick W (425) 339-3751 for info. July 14: Dreamer, Grade III 5.9 Rock Experience Required & Leaders Permission. Limit 2 contact Bob Clarke [email protected] 206-985-2583

August 11: Forbidden Peak, Grade II 5.6 Rock/Glacier Experience Required & Leaders Per- Yodel Staff mission. Limit 2 contact Bob Clarke: If you want an electronic copy of the Yodel, or have a question [email protected] 206-985-2583 about your subscription, send email to: [email protected], (please only send editorial questions to [email protected]) Message from Lori U. our Activities Chair: More activities will be posted in upcoming yodels. Editor: Bill A. (206) 789-8346 [email protected] Printing & Distribution: Tim W. Please respect these following courtesies when [email protected] signing up for an event. Call leader for sign up Memberships & Mailing List: Bob L. and particulars about event (i.e. directions and 206-310-2896 [email protected] equipment.) How to Contribute Notify Leader immediately if you are unable to The deadline for February Yodel: Mar. 20, 2000 Via Email: [email protected] make the event after signup. There may be a Via FAX: (by arrangement) waiting list. Respect OSAT Traditions on all events. This is You are strongly encouraged to submit your contributions via elec- posted monthly in your yodel. Observe OSAT tronic mail. If you can’t do this, contact Bill for mailing instruc- safety policies on all events. You can also get tions. weekly updated info on the Activities Hotline at 206.236.4777. Use passcode 9674. Let's go play!!

The Yodel v10.01, p. 5 Mt. Rainier cont. gazed up. I wondered if some- the new day. lenses, which remain attached thing so fragile as myself could to the outside edge of the The next morning confirmed find her way to that brilliant metal tubes and look out our earlier fears of bad were twelve of us all smiling white plateau that beckoned through regular clear glass. weather. The clouds moved in with the expectation of a suc- from Rainier’s summit. David had brought his own ver- and our ascent to Ingram Flats cessful trip to Rainier’s summit. sion of this type of Glacier The first two miles where al- was done in misty white All the members of our climb glasses. These were made most snow free with a variety clouds. Would we make it? I offered encouragement and from light green and pink plas- of colorful flowers that took my wondered. It seemed that this support from this small begin- tic shaped into small fat turtles. breath away. I came to appre- time we would not. Not only ning to the final steps onto the Not to be out done by the oth- ciate why this meadow had were the winds picking up but summit. ers these glasses also had the come to be called paradise. It the clouds were thickening giv- feature of dark lenses opening There were four rope teams. was surely my picture of what ing us occasional glimpses of out on the side to reveal clear Rik, reliable, knowledgeable heaven might look like. Clear, the summit. Trails of black glasses underneath. It was and safety conscious was the pristine and full of vibrant dots descended from the milky quite comical to see David who climb leader and the head of color. But I would not be white cloud shrouding the up- is big and bald wearing these our rope team, which included swayed too long for the huge per mountain as we once more green and pink plastic turtle Fred and myself. Bob Clark, mountain above called to me of set up camp. We dug our tent sunglasses. Someone got pic- full of abundant energy and greater things yet to come. plateau (this time my efforts tures and getting them posted good cheer, led a rope with were hardly noticeable as my I maintained a good pace and so everyone can see them Russell and Joseph. David optimism fell before the signs was one of the first to reach would be worth the effort. brought his ceaseless good hu- of bad weather), set up tent, Camp Muir. We stopped three mor to lead a rope with Charles ate and drank, melted more After the meeting I tried to get times on the way up to soak up (our California casualty) and water, and got on warmer some sleep to prepare myself the sun’s warm rays and par- Rob (our youngest AA mem- clothes. for departure to the summit at take of food and water. I ber). And last but certainly not midnight. We would be hiking made sure to drink and eat for We had our second AA meeting least Sean, our most devoted to the summit and all the way I’d learned that all my re- around 2:00 and just when I rock and glacier climber came back down to the paradise sources would be needed to thought I had seen everything leading Steve and Kit on his parking lot and I wanted to feel make the final push. Both Fred David S was there with more rope. rested. Unfortunately, the and I were veterans of an ear- surprises. A couple of the wind picked up and shook our As the 65-pound pack settled lier climb that had only other members of our group tent violently every few min- on my back like a ton of rocks achieved 13,000 feet due to had purchased the new style utes. I managed to get a few causing the familiar straining of high winds. George Mallory glacier glasses hours sleep even though the callused muscles, my feet be- which are really quite authentic Our time at Camp Muir fol- wind would startle me awake gan the relentless repetitive looking. They are reminiscent lowed a routine I had followed with a regularity that became pounding of climbing with a of the first climbs up Mt Ever- three times before. Dig plat- maddening. comfort that only five months est. One version is made from form, set up tent, have food of hiking, sometimes with four shinny silver metal shaped into It was around 10:30pm, which and water, start melting more gallons of water and various short tubes worn against the was our wake up time, when water, and get on warmer gear, can teach. face. The glass at the end of the miracle started. clothes. We were able to man- these tubes includes two The day was clear. The moun- age a AA meeting that was full The wind had been increasing lenses. One is dark and tain rose above Paradise’s of the spirit of people willing to steadily for several hours. By opaque while the lens under- lovely meadows, glistening brave this great adventure to- the time of our departure it neath is clear. The wearer has pure white in the sunshine. I gether. Surprisingly, I slept was fast and loud. I had al- the option to open the dark felt small but hopeful as I peacefully waking up eager for ways imagined Rik to be

(Continued from page 2) OSAT was just a spark in the Hink- ment of the impact OSAT has had on As we climbed higher, the looming house imagination. A dream of a so- Alcoholics in the Seattle area and I Peaks of Liberty Bell and Cutthroat ber drunk to combine his passion for am grateful to be apart of this great became on an eye-level par with us Alcoholics Anonymous with his love club. It has enhanced my sobriety and, after two hours, we were as for the mountains and have a meet- and allowed me to find a part of my- high as we could get on Hinkhouse ing on top of Mt. Rainier. As we self that I would otherwise not have Peak. It was a beautiful day, a won- shared around the circle, it was abun- known existed. If I can give back derful hike, great fellowship and...... dantly clear that, even though most just a fraction of what the Hinkhouse the best was yet to come. We of us had never met the man, Jimmy dream has given to me, it would be grabbed a bite to eat and settled Hinkhouse touched each of our lives more than I can put into words. One down for a meeting. with his vision of OSAT and left a leg- drunk helping another, one step at a acy that extends the gift of sobriety. time. Of the nine of us there, the ones who actually knew Jimmy Hinkhouse were Speaking only for myself, I feel that Thank you, Jimmy. of the minority. Dick W. shared dis- Rik A's quest to have a peak named cussions he'd had with Jimmy when after this man is a monumental state-

March, 2001 p. 6 X-Country OSAT Style, continued: meeting. They made it sound fun, few more things, retained some from memories of past athletic endeavors. but not easy. I was not deterred. the first trip, and fell a lot less. One Having already accomplished the im- I got my equipment together and of the instructors asked me whether possible feat of putting down alcohol met the instructors at the carpool going back to the car was the high- and drugs for good, I know I can do rendezvous point in North Bend. We light of my day. I was tired, so I anything, as long as I have infinite ventured to Cabin Creek, for its easy said, yes, but here's the real high- time, patience, and desire. groomed trails. I stumbled around, light: Kicking and gliding along, by took a few spectacular falls, and myself, on a flat trail overlooking a So, what's my point? Along comes learned more than I could process, snow-covered landscape, accented the cross country ski class, spon- mentally or physically. Would I go by a flat gray river. No sound but the sored by OSAT. again? Would I be invited again, or wind; a beautiful black-and-white After many years of sitting on bar- would the instructors decide that I photo in real life. stools and saying I wanted to learn was incapable of learning yet an- That, I said to myself, is what it's all cross country skiing, because it other cool sport? about! would be less competitive, scary and noisy than downhill skiing, I decided I did invite myself to the second field Our next trip is Sunday, March 25. I to try it. I emailed the instructors trip, and was welcomed, not turned can't wait! that I would be at the informational away. On the second trip, I learned a

(Continued from page 6) holding me back. alone for most of my life. gone and the sun was warm. OSAT’s most safety conscious Bob’s rope team had not re- The snow had an odd gold We stopped twice due to prob- leader so I mistakenly assumed mained on top but had passed sparkle when it wasn’t shinning lems on the rope. Once Fred’s he wouldn’t make a summit us going down just minutes brilliant white in the sun. Mt. lamp went dark and once I had attempt. Not only were the before we reached the crater. Tahoma and its surrounding to stop for a quick food pick winds high but a cloud cover David, Charles, and Rob soon crevasse ridden glaciers glowed me up as I felt my energy had had descended to 12,000 feet. joined us on top. several thousand feet below completely deserted me. Upon What I didn’t know is that he us. Everywhere Mt. Rainier reflection there was also a mo- Thankfully, both David and I had called his weather friend displayed her treasures for my ment when my Rainier adven- were of similar minds in want- and the forecast was for clear gaze. The huge blocks of ture could have ended badly. ing to reach the true summit so skies by the next morning. So white snow, the deep blue ici- There were many crevasses we all started across the crater. three rope teams started. We cle covered crevasses, the soft due to the lateness of the sea- It was this mile of the hike that didn’t know it then but the puffs of snow, and the gold son and one was so wide that I left me with those memories fourth team had headlight trou- haze leapt to my gaze. It was did not believe I could jump it. that I will carry for a lifetime. ble and was unable to attempt awe-inspiring. And remarkably But I could see a ledge about It was so incredible and aston- the summit. this clear calm weather contin- two feet down on the opposite ishing to be in this eerie other ued even as we carefully and We left at 11:50 walking bank. I decided to climb down worldly place. The sun was quietly slipped through the ice- against wind gusts that periodi- to this ledge and then up to bright now with all signs of fall surrounding Disappoint- cally forced me to strain for the opposite side. What I did- clouds momentarily gone. The ment Cleaver. The rangers balance. A thick white cloud n’t realize is that this ledge snow formed ridges of individ- had warned us to be through cover lie ahead leaving most of could have easily broken un- ual frozen white feathers. The this icefall before 10:00 am as the surrounding landscape to derneath me leaving only a path had been worn into the ice suddenly and continually the imagination. But amazingly rope between a seemingly bot- snow until it had created a broke off to threaten unsus- the cloud cover began to lift tomless crevasse and me. I roofless tunnel. The dirt pecting climbers. And then we and the winds decreased as we only realized my possible dan- around the heat vents was an were at base camp at 9:20. climbed the direct route past ger when Rik yelled at me after odd rust orange smelling We took a three-hour break Disappointment Cleaver. Dur- I safely crossed, “Off Belay!” slightly of chemical sulfur. and started our final descent at ing the entire ascent we never My advice to anyone attempt- We finally made the other side 12:00pm. By this time the did reach that cloud cover. ing to climb a high altitude and I signed the book kept in a upper mountain was again Even on the summit the cloud mountain is; pack an experi- steel box, with frozen fingers. covered with thick white clouds cover had risen above us. Past enced safety-conscious leader. The wind increased temporarily which were rapidly descending the protection of the Cleaver I was most grateful that our once more to hit 60 miles as to our position. I knew in my we were once more exposed to ascent proceeded without fur- we made our ultimate goal of heart that all those that had the full force of the wind and ther incident. 14, 410. The cameras flashed prayed for us to have a every step became a challenge Finally, amazingly Rik turned to pictures, we all hugged hur- wonderful climb had been not only due to steepness and me and said, “You have made riedly, and began our descent. answered. low oxygen but also because I it!” We were on the crater rim. had to fight against the force Our descent was remarkable in I will never forget this I was finally on top of the of a high wind blowing against its beauty given the bad experience and invite anyone white volcano called Mt. Rain- me. I was in the middle of the weather at midnight. The wind to walk beyond their comfort ier, which I had seen, in the rope and Fred sometimes and cloud cover was totally zones to reach for the stars. distance standing peculiarly seemed like a dead weight

The Yodel v10.01, p. 7 P.O. Box 6461 Lynnwood, WA 98036-6461

SUPPORT OSAT IN STYLE: Mailing Address Goes Here

They come in various colors and sizes! Price is $15. Please contact Joan M.

Ph: 425-277-8943

OSAT MARKETPLACE Advertising in this column is free for all OSAT members. To keep your ad in subsequent issues, you must notify the Yodel of your renewal prior to deadline. Send the Yodel your personals, gear swap offers, and situations wanted. 50 word limit.

OSAT Climbers and Adventure Lovers! May I assist your Couples Counseling. Sensitive help in resolving tender travel planning? I offer my services as a full time travel agent to help relationship issues. Rich H. MA CMFT, (206)418-1150 get you to the peaks, the shores and the cities. Events available: Hono- lulu convention in November Women’s International in February, Sober Club Med in February. Call me! Janice B at 425-646-8200. IF YOUR BODY WEARS OUT, WHERE WILL YOU LIVE NEXT? Go see Dr. Mark Fredrich at his new location: Woodway MOVING SOON? Call Jim Fahey Moving! 18 Years com- Chiropractic, 20015 Highway 99, Suite A Lynnwood, WA 98036 mercial and residential experience. Need help moving a piano? Jim’s Ph: 425-771-BACK (425-771-2225) FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION your man! Ph:425-787-7888 [email protected] AND EXAMINATION FOR ALL OSAT MEMBERS SUPPORT SIGN-LANG. ON TIGER: Beautiful 20” handmade bead necklaces on sale for only $10. All money is donated to interpret- FOR SALE: Aromatherapy Eye Pillows $13, Serenity ers for Tiger Mt. meeting once a month. Please call David “Dax” Bath Salts $6/20 oz.great for after a long hike. Cedar Sox Ching (206) 623-7857 or email [email protected] for more information. 100% cotton/cedarwood - pull odor and moisture out of the smelliest hiking boots... $12.00/pair. $3.00 s/h. Great gifts! Call AWAKENING SPIRITS (206) 767-9339

March, 2001 p. 8 OSAT Membership Application/Renewal Form One Step At A Time (OSAT): An outdoor club for members and friends of Twelve Step Recovery Programs since 1991. Essential Information: ____New Member ____Renewal or Previous Member Name Address City, State Zip Day Phone ( ) - Evening Phone ( ) - Email

Please indicate the how you would like to receive the club newsletter the Yodel: Email US postal

Please check the information you would like to have published in the OSAT Directory. (The list is distributed to members): Full Name Day Phone No Listing First Name, Last Initial Evening Phone Address Email

OSAT has dues to pay for costs associated with the newsletter, telephone hotline, mailing costs, etc. OSAT also accepts donations to finance club activities. OSAT is a tax-exempt non-profit organization under IRS section 501(c) (3). Donations in excess of dues amount are tax deductible. In respect to Tradition 6 of AA, OSAT club property and finances are kept separate from the funds and property of any OSAT 12 step groups.

DUES (Jan-Dec): Single _____ $12 per year Couple_____ $18 per year (sharing the same address) $ MERCHANDISE: OSAT Stickers (3"x5") 1 for $2_____ for windows, bumpers, 2 for $3_____ gear, etc. 3 for $4_____ $

T-Shirts_____ S_____ M_____ L_____ XL_____ $15 each $ DONATIONS: Donation $ Total Enclosed: $

Please Make Checks Payable to OSAT Mail your payment along with this form to: OSAT-MEMBERSHIP PO BOX 6461 LYNNWOOD WA 98036-0461

PLEASE BE SURE TO FILL OUT THE ANNUAL RELEASE AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT ON THE REVERSE SIDE OF THIS FORM Optional Information IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL OSAT MEMBERS All current and/or new members of OSAT who wish to participate in ANY OSAT activities will be REQUIRED to sign and submit an ANNUAL release and Sex ____ Birthdate ______indemnity agreement (below). ANNUAL RELEASE AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT Recovery Birthdate(s) (if applicable) ______I,(print name) ______hereby state that I wish to participate in courses and/or activities offered by OSAT, a non- profit corporation. I recognize any outdoor activity may involve certain dangers, How did you find out about OSAT? ______including but not limited to the hazards of traveling in mountainous terrain, accidents or illness in remote places, force of nature, and the actions of participants and other persons. I further understand and agree that without some Referring member (if any) ______program providing protection of its assets and its leaders, OSAT would not be able to offer its courses and activities. INTERESTS In consideration of and as part payment for the right to participate in the activities What is your interest in any of the activities listed below? offered by OSAT, I agree to RELEASE, HOLD HARMLESS AND INDEMNIFY OSAT and its members from any and all liability, claims and causes of action arising out of or in any way connected with my participation, or the participation of Activity None Some Lots Willing to Lead any minor that I am signing on behalf of, in any activities offered by OSAT. I personally assume all risks in connection with these activities. If I am signing on behalf of a minor, I further agree to HOLD HARMLESS AND INDEMNIFY OSAT Hiking o o o o and its members from all liability, claims and causes of action which the minor may have arising from the minor's participation in activities. Scrambling o o o o The terms of this agreement shall serve as a release and indemnity agreement for Climbing (glacier) o o o o my heirs, personal representative, and for all members of my family, including any minors. (Parents or legal guardians must sign for all persons under eighteen [18] Climbing (rock) o o o o years of age.) Backpacking I have read this release and indemnity agreement and have fully informed myself o o o o of its contents before I have signed it. Car Camping o o o o Backcountry Skiing o o o o Signature______Date ______Alpine Skiing o o o o Signature______Date ______Snowshoeing o o o o Signature of Parent or Guardian______Bicycling o o o o Running o o o o Walking o o o o Kayaking o o o o Family Outings o o o o Outdoor Meetings o o o o

Other (describe) ______OSAT Safety Committee Basic Safety Standards

1. When is an outing an official OSAT activity?

1.1. An official OSAT outing is an activity announced by an OSAT member and uses OSAT channels (e-groups, Yodel, hotline, etc.) to announce the activity. 1.2. And/or when it is part of an OSAT course. 1.3. And/or when it uses OSAT funds or equipment.

2. Basic equipment to be taken on all OSAT outings

2.1. The ten essentials: map, compass, flashlight, extra food, extra clothing, sunglasses, first aid kit, pocket knife, waterproof matches, candle or firestarter. 2.2. Appropriate footwear for the activity. 2.3. Food. 2.4. Appropriate clothing for the activity. 2.5. Other equipment as designated by the leader.

3. All participants in OSAT outings shall follow the Safety Standards as adopted by OSAT.

3.1. Leader responsibilities 3.1.1. The leader will qualify participants prior to an outing. 3.1.2. The leader shall limit the number of participants for an activity based on safety standards. 3.1.3. The leader shall designate the amount and type of equipment each participant shall have. 3.1.4. The leader is responsible for trip planning.

3.2. Participant responsibilities 3.2.1. All participants must have signed an OSAT release form prior to participating in an outing. 3.2.2. All participants will follow the directions of the leader or their designate. 3.2.3. Participants will contact the leader prior to the outing.

Participants in all OSAT outings agree to take responsibility for their actions within the club and to assume responsibility for assessing and controlling risk. Each member of an activity shares in the responsibility for having a safe and enjoyable outing by being prepared with the right equipment, clothing and emergency gear and also bringing the necessary skills, fitness and commitment.

March 13, 2000