The Paddler Tattler INSIDE THIS ISSUE (Click items to jump)

Calendar & Events

Talking with In Between Swims

Pint Night

Movie Night

Roll Practice

Daddy’s Creek: Go Fast Day

Flatwater Does Florida

Flatwater & Overnighter A different perspective on Baby Falls—Meryl Stark sets up her boof stroke Schedules going over the lip during New Year’s Huckfest. Photo Credit: Brian Hunter FEBRUARY 2015 Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat

Jan 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 TVCC Roll Practice @ Downtown YMCA

Feb 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Outdoor Chattanooga Roll Practice @ SAU

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 TVCC Roll Practice @ Outdoor Chattanooga Downtown YMCA Roll Practice @ SAU

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Board Meeting (Location TBD)

22 23 24 25 26 27 28 TVCC Roll Practice @ Downtown YMCA

The Paddler Tattler February 2015 2 We are excited to start announcing details for 2015 School! This year is promised to be a Calling All weekend packed full of water, friends and memories. If you’ve never been to a Paddle School, do not miss Paddlers! this year! We will have Dagger playing Friday Night and What Saturday’s Auction always provides entertainment 2015 Paddle School and a great way to score some great deals while When supporting the club. FEBRUARY May 29th – May 31st EVENTS Any questions about Paddle School should be Where directed to Ashley Teel at [email protected]. OAR 629 Welcome Valley Road Applications, updates and more can be found at Benton, TN 37307 www.tvccpaddler.com.

January 25th, February 11h & 22nd— TVCC Roll Practice 4-6pm, (WW). Downtown YMCA. Must provide all equipment. Boats must be clean. TVCC Membership Required. $5 for ACA Members (with number), $10 for non-ACA Members. For full listing of dates and details, see page 6.

February 3rd & 10th—Outdoor Chattanooga Roll Practice 7-8 or 8-9pm, (WW). Southern Adventist University Hulsey Wellness Center. $2 fee to use the pool, $10 for non-members for roll practice. For full listing of dates and details, see page 11.

February 18th—Board Meeting 6:30pm. (C). LOCATION TBD. All members are welcome! Come see what the board does during our monthly meetings. Enjoy dinner and drinks It’s never too early to start thinking about Paddle School! afterwards. Save the date for May 29th to 31st — We’ll see you there! The Paddler Tattler February 2015 3 Apply From the President’s for ACA Editor Corner

TVCC is certainly starting off the year with a Now that we are a month into 2015, and we are already Certification bang. talking about Paddle School, I want to reflect on TVCC’s mission statement, and what it means to me: January isn’t even quite over, and TVCC has by Mike Shillinger already had more than a handful of well- To bring together those who are interested , attended events -- 2 roll practice sessions, and related activities; to increase the TVCC is looking Pint Night, an Outdoor Chattanooga Winter knowledge, safety and appreciation of paddle sports; for club Workshop, our Movie Night at Dumpy’s, and a and to support conservation and preservation of members that Board Meeting. All but one of these took place recreational waterways. are willing to within a 10 day period. step up and I joined TVCC in late 2010 because I was new to the become part What I like to refer to as the “Week of TVCC” was area and wanted to get back to . Now four of the clubs’ only so successful because of the dedication years later, my dearest friends are those that I’ve met outstanding and commitment of our board members and through TVCC, I’ve paddled rivers that I didn’t know ACA qualified other volunteers, especially Ashley Teel, Rebecca existed, helped support the conservation of our local training staff. If Hendrix, Jen Maxwell, Don Fletcher, LaDawn recreational waterways, and even joined AW and ACA. you are interested in attending ACA Instructor Qualification Wolfe, Mike Shillinger, Tony Hill, Debby McRae, TVCC allows us all to be the paddlers we want to in White Water , White Water , Coastal , Don Fletcher, and Pat Carver. On behalf of be, regardless of whether we are looking to step up Stand Up Paddleboard, and Swift Water Rescue, now is your everyone in the club, thank you. our game or want to take it easy on a confidence- opportunity to apply for a club scholarship. Sit back, relax, boosting run. There are always people who will help us Applicants should have experience in the venue in which and take a look accomplish goals. they are applying and understand the ACA requirements to at the recaps of TVCC’s mission gives us freedom to meet new people, become fully qualified instructors. The club is willing to invest some of these enjoy the company of our good friends, help out new in you! The board will review all applicants and the Safety events--whether boaters, and ensure that we always have water to & Training Chair will work with the selectees to schedule or not you had paddle. Though the mission gives us this freedom, it’s upcoming training. the chance to attend! the people who make TVCC what it is today. I’m proud Follow the instructions on the application and return it to the to serve on the board for such an amazing group of Secretary ([email protected]) no later than March Enjoy! people. Looking back, what does TVCC mean to you? 1st, 2015. Meryl Stark, SYOTR, Click here for the application. Did you get your pint glass? Newsletter Editor Ashley Teel, Vice President

The Paddler Tattler February 2015 4 Talking with In Between Swims A Conversation with Jeff McIntyre

into a hole sideways. I found myself sidesurfing, getting who left Adventure Schools, moved out west, and started A few months ago, I discovered the Podcast windowshaded, and thinking, “You’ve got to be kidding me!” outdoorplay.com. We were surrounded by a really high “In Between Swims” via a Facebook link, The hole is really grabby, it’s really aerated, and it was really caliber of boaters who are now the “old guard.” and decided to give it a listen. I was cold. I punched out, and I came out of it with a few choice I’m just incredibly blessed and incredibly fortunate to have immediately swept to one of my favorite words. started the sport when I did. Just as we were beginning to places: the river. Okay, I was actually in become proficient boaters, flat-hulled boats started coming the lab at work, but this was the next best out. I think I may have had the first production X. Eric gave thing—a show all about paddling! PT: How long have you been paddling? What me as payment for teaching for him later on. It was just a got you started with the sport? Any funny or super exciting time to be in the sport. Jeff McIntyre, the host, spends most of his episodes interesting stories you want to share from when interviewing exciting players in the paddling community, so you were learning? I figured I would turn the tables. Enjoy the Paddler Tattler’s interview with Jeff, and then check out the show on iTunes JM: I’ve been paddling somewhere around 20 years. I was PT: What’s your favorite river or place to paddle? really lucky to start with people who later became real and online at www.inbetweenswims.com. A little birdie even JM: That’s a tough question, because I’ve been fortunate to leaders in the industry. I started paddling with a school here told me that a new episode is going to drop soon! be on many beautiful rivers all around the world. in Washington [DC] called Adventure Schools, which had by Meryl Stark been recently purchased by . We were his first My home river, the Potomac, is really difficult to beat. We get class. Almost all of my formative kayaking and most of my big huge flows that are greater than the Grand Canyon during PADDLER TATTLER: Since this is the question personal first descents were either following EJ, or under his springtime on the Potomac. There are epic playspots and the you ask everyone on your show, when was your guidance or inspiration. falls. We have a section called Little Falls where the Potomac last swim? hits the Tidal Potomac, and so depending on the level and That being said, DC is a hotbed for really good boaters, and depending on where the tide is, it’s different every time you JEFF MCINTYRE: My last swim was last winter on the his instructor corps at the time included Sam Drevo, who hit the river. You can paddle at 8000 cfs on Tuesday and 8000 Dickerson Artificial Course in Dickerson, MD. runs Energy Kayaking School in Portland and was a big cfs on Thursday and it be a completely different rapid. It was a little pourover called Kibler’s Hole, and I had just kayak porn star back in the days of VHS. He and Tao Berman finished guiding a bunch of students down the course. I got paddled a bunch of stuff together. Eric Southwick was also There’s a great 18-ft slide on the Actopan in Mexico that falls them out at the bottom, and I decided to make a last difficult one of the instructors. He won the World Championships into a spring-fed pool, with water coming out of the side of move right at the very end. I blew my ferry and dropped in Freestyle after Eric did. And of course, Tree (John Trujillo), the mountain, which then becomes a beautiful Class III run.

The Paddler Tattler February 2015 5 The water is still, and when you’re upside down, it’s so clear that you can actually open your eyes and see clouds.

Frankly, it’s hard to beat any natural flowing river. The Tellico is amazing—Baby Falls, and Diaper Wiper right after that. There is really something special about Oceana on the Tallulah. There are rivers in Europe, and Africa, but Potomac is really going to be the favorite.

Almost every river has a sacred place or aspect to it, and that’s why we have to work so hard to protect them all.

PT: How long have you been doing your show? What inspired you to get started?

JM: The show’s been running more or less for about 7 years now. There are just under 80 episodes.

Two things motivated me to do the show. One was simply the rise in technology; that I had the ability to do it. Much like we’ve seen GoPros and POV cameras change video, suddenly there was audio available. I did college radio way back in the day, and have always loved producing. It seemed like there was an opportunity for something to occur. The “Do-it- Yourself” mentality was driven by the early episodes of Lunch Video Magazine that Spencer Cook and Daniel Delavergne introspection on what we do as paddlers? mainly because I overcame production difficulties. did. I realized that they did this cool magazine format on their The show is a complement to all the kayak porn. I love that The show that I did with Steve Fisher on Congo: The Inga own. I thought, “We could do something like that on audio, stuff as much as anyone; my Facebook feed is full of it. But, Project (released 4/10/13) is a great one. Steve had contacted except we could have the conversations instead.” I know there’s a story behind it. Whenever we get called me a year before he went to the Congo, and without The video at the time was breathtaking, but I felt like daredevils, I’m thinking, “That’s really not where it is.” There’s giving any details, had said he had something brewing, something was missing from all the “kayak porn.” I knew a long tradition of spirit and good conversation in engaging and suggested that a conversation on the show could be all these guys that were in these great action videos, and I nature. I wanted to create a venue for people to be able to good for both of us down the road. Because of how Steve knew there was something that wasn’t being shown. You tell their stories. approached this, it fit into a pattern of significant historical saw them run these big drops, but you didn’t see them set exploration in that area, not just a bunch of YouTube boaters safety. You didn’t see them scout, nor did you see when they hucking themselves. Plus, it came on the heels of the tragic walked away from it. I know these stories are there, and I PT: Do you have a favorite episode, or one (a passing of Hendrik Coetzee, who was supposed to be on the know these guys are dedicated soul boaters. Why not put few) that you would recommend to those who expedition. together something on audio that is a blend of these sorts of haven’t listened before? Steve was in the area, so he came over to the house, and we behind the scenes stories and conversations, with a little bit JM: I have a couple episodes that I’m proud of, but it’s were able to sit down and have a good conversation about of ‘look, no hands,’ and a little bit of educational and soulful The Paddler Tattler February 2015 6 it. I’m really happy with that episode because I feel like Steve with Chris to talk a little bit more about technique because we do for physical technique is something I’m eager to work talked about things from a different place—what this meant visualization is such an important part of learning how to with on the show. to him. kayak and learning new skills. Having an audio component PT: Do you have any advice for those where you are forced to visualize is going to be something I kind of have a motto for the show, which is, “Don’t believe transitioning from being beginner paddlers to interesting to experiment with. the hype; don’t believe the hate.” The internet is full of both, intermediates? When the steep “trying not to and Steve was good about being genuine. We got to tell I have some great stories from the guys with Expedition die” learning curve tapers off? his story, and engage him with some difficult questions. It Inception who are in Africa now. I’m always looking for JM: All the old cliches hold true. If you’re not learning, then speaks well of him that everything came together as well as guys—and women—who are pushing limits and get out you’re really not paddling; you’re not trying anything new. it did. there. It’s not necessarily running the gnarly Class V, but Even I struggle with that. It’s scary to get on the top of a big sometimes it’s just bringing a different perspective to drop. I think what’s often not reflected is that while it’s great something. to see the pros hucking themselves off big waterfalls, they PT: I’m excited to see that your show is back I’m really happy with and interested in getting more women’s go through the same mental and emotional checklist that from its hiatus. What should we expect in the voices on the program. There aren’t nearly enough women beginners boaters use stepping up to their first Class II run, or coming episodes, including in the series you’ve boaters for what the sport is. The women’s perspective in trying to make a tough move on a Class III river. started with Chris from H2o Dreams about boating is unique, and I don’t think it’s been reflected as well taming the “lizard brain”? I’m a huge fan of hard moves on easy rivers. I started taking as it could be. I’ve been fortunate to have both ameteaur my creekboat down the Lower Yough, which is traditionally JM: The next episodes will be a blend of things. I’m working and professional female boaters on the show (including more of a playboat run, and searching out the creek lines on Emily Jackson and Anna it. An entirely new world opened up for me. When I did step Levesque), but I’m always up and started doing harder runs like the Upper Yough and looking for more with Tallulah, suddenly that intimidation factor wasn’t there as stories to tell. much because the moves were familiar. I felt confident that I could make that ferry or get my paddle placement right for that boof. When you get comfortable on a run, whether it’s As far as the “lizard brain,” I Class II or not, dial it up a notch. See what something looks know from my experience like, and if you flip, swim, or roll, it’s not a big deal because as an instructor that the you know what you’re getting into. more you know, the better you’ll get, and the more Also, never underestimate the power of slalom gates. fun you have. One of the Anybody can do it, not everybody can do it right. A great things about this martial arts instructor once told me, “Technique is proof of sport is that there’s such a seriousness.” Doing the hard moves on the easy rivers is really huge mental component the way to dial that in. to it. Some people want to And one other thing: Have fun with it! It’s so easy for people figure it out, some people to get freaked out and to beat themselves up, but we’ve all want to just do it. Being been through that. “We’re all in between swims.” Paddling is able to engage that mental fun. That’s why we do it. component and break it down into steps just like

The Paddler Tattler February 2015 7 PT: Do you have a career outside the paddling JM: The vision for the show is to emphasize the common industry? If so, any advice for the weekend threads for all paddlers, and to continue to look for the warriors out there? stories of what makes us unique. Whether you’re a pro, a Treasurer’s beginner, an open boater, doing SUP on whitewater, a rafter, JM: I work for PBS and have been there for about 2 years competing, or just out for the weekend, we all have so much now. I’m one of the many people with a 9-to-5 and a boat on in common. We all have a joint celebration of the river. Report my car in the parking lot. Of course, we all goof up from time to time too. We all The advice I give is just to keep on going. People sometimes appreciate the greatness that the river can bring us, as well think we’re less of boaters if we only get out a couple of (2nd Quarter) as the challenges we all face. Don’t take it so seriously—it’s times a year or if we’re only able to do that one big trip a the metaphor of “In Between Swims”—we are all in between year. It’s just not the case. As long as you’re out there time swims in everything. by Debby McRae, TVCC Treasurer to time, and you make make it to Gauley Fest, or you just make it to GAF and run down Nantahala Falls successfully— I’m really blessed and honored to continue to have great Here is the link to the 2nd Quarter Income Statement that’s awesome. Introduce somebody else to it; talk about it. conversations with boaters from all over the world. One of (reporting period Oct.1 - Dec.31 2014). The checking It’s a really great and unique experience that we have. The my favorite things to do with the show is to go to a takeout account beginning balance was $17,447.35 and the river is an incredible place to be where we learn a lot about or a put-in of any river, walk up to boaters, introduce myself, ending balance was $15,024.63. ourselves, and learn a lot about the communities around us. and ask them about their last swims. It’s so great to be able To summarize, income for the period comprised of to meet complete strangers, and within a few minutes, The other thing I would add to that is to be your own boater. new memberships, donations raised at the Ocoee be laughing and having a good time sharing common It’s really easy to get caught up in the hype. As I said earlier, Race for Team River Runner and First Descents, and experiences. I really believe, “Don’t believe the hype; don’t believe the donations raised for North Chickamauga Creek hate.” Make up your own mind about everything. From the Conservancy. The majority of expenses were for SWR boat that is right for you, to the equipment, ACA instructor training, Ocoee Race line that you want to run, to who expenses, computer equipment, donations to Team you paddle with. It’s easy for us to River Runner and First Descents, donation to NCCC fall into those traps, and that’s a and our annual club membership to ACA. great lesson we can all get from Please direct inquiries to [email protected]. boating—to be better people individually. I hate to see the sport get to the point of the have and Link to 2nd Quarter Income Statement: the have-nots, because we really https://drive.google.com/file/ all are the haves. d/0B4IaUSF3UKziREs4bVhuZ3RObG8/ view?usp=sharing PT: Is there anything that you want to add about your vision for the show or that we haven’t already addressed?

The Paddler Tattler February 2015 8 Paddlers packed into Rock/ Creek on Riverside Drive to enjoy beer, good company, Guidebook Release Pint Night and Kirk Eddlemon’s new whitewater guidebooks. Benefiting the NCCC (Photo: Lauren Kindle)

Rock Creek at Riverside was bustling with efforts to purchase land for a public access. Thanking TVCC excitement and good cheer as paddlers for its continued support, he mentioned the club’s previous reunited to celebrate the Chattanooga contribution and and update on the project. Mentioning release of Kirk’s Eddlemon’s Whitewater the river’s entry in Kirk’s guidebook (pgs. 140-143; Vol.1), he of the Southern Appalachians, and to help segued smoothly into book sales, of which a portion of the raise funds for the North Chickamauga night’s sales as well as the proceeds of beer sales would Creek Conservancy project. support the NCCC. The total funds raised for NCCC was $925.

As the beer started to flow in earnest, books were purchased by LaDawn Wolfe and signed, and plans for the weekend were made. In true It was the perfect venue to host the attractive, yet motley TVCC style, it didn’t take long to float the two kegs. The pack of paddlers. As pints were being poured, Kirk Eddlemon momentarily sated crowd lingered amidst the paddling signed books and mingled with contributors, many long- gear as conversations fell into their natural rhythm: of past time friends, and fans of his extensive guidebooks. The laid adventures, misfortunes (i.e. swims) and congratulatory PFDs. back atmosphere was befitting the 80+ paddling enthusiasts As the “Where are we paddling tomorrow?” turned into while many club members caught up with friends that “Where are we heading to now?” the Pint night came to an they have not seen since late Fall. Conversations drifted end. On behalf of Kirk Eddlemon, Rock Creek and the NCCC, a from holiday updates, tales of recent river runs, and to the big thanks to TVCC and its wonderful members. inevitable, “What are you running tomorrow?” SEE PAGE 14 FOR MORE PHOTOS! Kirk Eddlemon signs his book as Joe Bray looks on. Tim Laramore of the NCCC spoke briefly regarding the The Paddler Tattler FebruaryFeburary 2015 9 by Tyson Capehart

If you missed the club’s movie night this past Saturday night, you missed a good time! There’s no better place to hold a paddling film viewing party than at the pride of Ocoeeland, Dumpy’s. This place is crankin’ in the summer, and it was very nice of them to partner with TVCC to open it up for one night in the middle of January.

Many club members and Ocoee locals showed up to view “Hanging Spear” and “Nobody’s River”. Both films were good, but very different. I had already seen “Hanging Spear”, but I was still amazed at the amount of planning and hiking it took Steve Fisher and my hero, Pat Keller (if you don’t know the story of why he’s my hero, feel free to ask), to reach the Opalescent Gorge in upstate New York. Seeing some of that awesome-looking Adirondack whitewater on a big screen TVCC Goes to the Movies was intense. The second film, “Nobody’s River”, wasn’t full of adrenaline- rushing material. However, it told the story of a girl who (above) A scene from Nobody’s River is (left) John Hubbard, lost a significant other and coped with that loss by setting projected onto the big screen. Teri & Bill Zur, Jen out to paddle something like 2000 miles of flat water with Maxwell, Ryan some of her best friends. This was a heavy film, but it was (below) After the films finished, Dagger Glasser, and Alex Blue & Dumpy’s kept the party going! Vargas smile for the still put together very well. While it didn’t have footage of (Photos: Ashley Teel) camera! someone firing up the gnar, it still had some good takeaway points. Also, I have mad respect for anyone that sets out on a (below) Juile mission to paddle that much flat water. Thornton tirelessly worked the bar all Along with the movies, there was footage from local boater; night! Alex Vargas, music by Dagger Blue, food from Poorboy’s BBQ, and beer. I had the Dumpy’s Dog, a bacon wrapped hotdog with barbecue on top. Two thumbs up! I hope the club plans more events like this. Not only do I like boating with my friends, but I also like hanging out off the river and living life with them too. These social events provide a good time to do that.

Oh yeah, and someone fell asleep.

(Photos: Mandy Beaty) The Paddler Tattler February 2015 10 TVCC’s indoor roll Insurance only covers participants; therefore, don’t bring practice continues anyone else. TVCC Winter Sunday, February 8th! The final Roll Practice sessions is planned for LOCATION February 22nd. Downtown Chattanooga YMCA Roll Practice 301 W. 6th Street All is calm before the storm. Members line up TIME their boats on the side of the pool before the 4 to 6 pm final practice of 2014. (photo: Ashley Teel)

COST $5 (with ACA Membership)

TVCC Membership Required ACA Membership Recommended, otherwise must be purchased for the event for an additional $5.

Send Don Fletcher an email by Thursday evening ([email protected]) with Roll Practice as the subject so that we can get an estimated head count – need 10 particpants to hold the session. Include your ACA number if you have one. Also include if you want to work with certified kayak instructors. The club will ask for help based on the replies.

BOATS MUST BE CLEAN AND FREE OF LEAVES. BE A GOOD STEWARD OF THE YMCA’S FACILITES.

If you are not a member of ACA, you can join at ACA website (Be sure to select PAC Individuals and Families) - $30 for an individual or $40 for a family. You can also join online for just one roll practice for Kayakers take over the Downtown YMCA Pool during the $5. Either way send your ACA membership number to Don. Scott Bird gives us an underwater view December 28th Roll Practice Session. Another successful Final option is to bring an extra $5 to roll practice– exact of the upside-down part of rolling in the practice was held on January 11th. (photo: Ashley Teel) change or Don keeps the excess as a tip. pool. (photo: Scott Bird)

The Paddler Tattler February 2015 11 It was great to see everyone in the canyon and big smiles on lots of faces! Here is a list of all the racers & their respective Daddy’s Creek times. SHORT BOAT CLASS (MEN)

(1)Brad McMillan — 18:09 Go Fast Day (2) Luke Scott — 18:18 (3) Jim Janney — 18:45 (4) Alex Ohman — 19:36 (5) Tom Zimmerman — 19:45 (6) Space Suit (Erik Hancock) — 19:48 (7) Daniel Brasuell — 19:52 (8) Mank Newton — 19:53 (9) Smokin’ Steve Krajewski — 19:58 (10) Chad Christopher — 20:05 (11) Sam Voigt — 20:07 (12) Fr. Daniel Talley — 20:09 (13) Steve Sanborn — 20:10 (14) Anthony Geist — 20:21 (15) Jordan Greene — 20:36 (16) Casey (Skinner) Cutter — 20:51 (17) Alan Chesnutt — 21:42 (18) Alex Zendel / Reid — 22:52 (19) Team Enochs (4) — 23:38 (20) Ashley Pacquette / Ted — 24:19 ...And the Results are in! Racers and spectators gather at the starting line with their boats. (Photo: Karl Whipp) by Karl Whipp SHORT BOAT CLASS (WOMEN)

Saturday, January 17th saw the 4th Annual Daddy’s Creek Go and this race being all about, well, not being sponsored. (1) Diane Gaydos — 20:05 Fast Day event. Once again, we had growth in the event with There are a few changes on the horizon for the 5th Annual (2) Mallie Billing — 21:55 26 total racers and I’d say 40+ folks paddling in to spectate. and a couple of ideas being kicked around as well. The level was perhaps a little on the low side at 1.4’, but LONG BOAT (CHEATER CLASS) Thanks to those that helped with the event. Steve Sanborn, everyone agreed that even low, Daddy’s channels very well for running the starting line time. LaDawn Wolfe, Terra McGill, (1) Hunt Jennings — 16:58 and was definitely worth having the event, especially with and Carin Burford for helping with the finish line time. A huge (2) Mark Taylor — 17:51 the weather providing bluebird skies and 55 degree temps— thanks to those who provided us with some give aways: (3) Bernie Engleman — 18:19 in mid-January. Smith Optics, Kokatat Watersports Wear, , and OPEN CANOE CLASS Congratulations to Brad McMillian, who laid down the fastest Liquid Logic . And of course, thanks to everyone for time of the day at 18:01; however, Mr. Jim Janney repeated coming out. (1) Nathan Zumwalt — 21:25 as the winner of the event due to Brad having a sponsorship The Paddler Tattler February 2015 12 A Spectator’s Account by David McConnell

On the first Saturday in January when the water level is above 1.4 feet, an annual grassroots race takes place in the Daddy’s Creek Canyon. This year’s race was on January 17th. While I had no intention of racing, I do appreciate that section of river and the water level appeared to be cooperative, so I concocted a plan to run Daddy’s Creek with a group of other TVCCers.

Myself, John Wiser (aka Gunny), Kendall Clark, and Tara Scarborough were also accompanied by Scott and Jen; two frinds from Ohio. We set a meeting time that should have allowed us to get into the Canyon before the race took place so that we could spectate from the shore.

Well, as they say, the best laid plans of mice and men often go awry. I had carefully marked the routes to the put in and takeout in my Tennessee Gazetteer, and we followed that route precisely. We were supposed to meet at the put-in at 10 to drop gear and head to the takeout to set shuttle and were out in front of us, so we continued on into the canyon. John Hubbard boofs the Fang. be on the river by 11. We drove to the spot I had down as the (Photo: Jeff Moore) The first part of the Canyon is a set of 4 rapids comprising a put-in right at 10 AM to find, the takeout. I had incorrectly Class IV section called the Snake. Individually they are named marked the put-in and takeout on my map. So, we turn Rocking Chair. It starts off with a mandatory ferry from a river Entrance, Spike, Body, and Fang. Taken on their own, these around to head to the put-in when the phones start dinging left eddy all the way to the river right bank through some rapids are not that hard, but they have constricted channels, with text messages. Tara and our friends from Ohio were lost. heavy current. Downstream on river left is a sieve called The strong boily currents, blind lead-ins, small eddies, some Crack, and in river center there is an undercut rock that all sieves, numerous undercut rocks, and oh by the way, if you Eventually we all arrived at the put-in, and we got our shuttle the current from river right pushes into; completing the ferry swim at the Body you’re probably going to do a nice body set. Once there we ran into John Hubbard, Spence Lycan, to the right bank is not optional. After the ferry you run a boof off of the Fang. and Ashley Teel whose group was running slightly later than double drop on the right, the second of which pushes you we were. After a short debate on the water level (it was a hair Our group negotiated this section with no problems other towards the undercut as you paddle to stay right to keep below the AW recommended minimum of 1.4’), we finally than some overcrowded eddies when another group came away from it. It’s a bit hectic and nerve-wracking. We had put on the river at around noon. in on top of us. We did have swimmer in the pool below the another swimmer at this rapid, who I watched with concern until they got to a safe place. Then I realized we were missing The first 3 and half miles of the run are basically moving Fang, but the safety crew was still in place from the race and gear; the undercut had eaten boat and paddle. Apparently flatwater with the occasional Class II rapid mixed in. The had retrieved his gear before I could get to an eddy and get they weren’t too tasty though, as it spit them out about beginning of the Canyon section is marked by Yellow Creek out of my boat to assess the situation. 20-30 seconds later and they popped up downstream. I was coming in on the river right, along with a small sandy beach Just below the Snake is another Class IV rapid named relieved it was just gear that had endured some downtime. which was to be the race staging area. By this time the racers

The Paddler Tattler February 2015 13 Once again, the safety crew for the race was on the spot reuniting boater and gear with amazing efficiency. More Photos from Pint Night

Our crew celebrated making it through the most difficult part of the Canyon unscathed, under the impression that we were just going to cruise the rest of the way to the takeout. Little did the others realize that in the 3 miles between us and the takeout were the Sweet 16; sixteen Class III/III+ rapids. This is where the fun really starts. Boat scouting, eddy hopping, water reading on the fly: fun, fun, fun. Somewhere along the way, passed by in a Duo asking me where the line was on a rapid; I guess even the pros need some help on an unfamiliar run. Too bad I couldn’t help him out as I replied that I didn’t know—I was just boat scouting myself, so he just blasted down the middle styling it like the pros do. Bruce Foster and some others caught up with us as we got closer to the end of the Canyon.

At the end of the Canyon was the finish line for the race, where 50 or so people and boats were piled up on the house sized rocks in the river engaging in a little post race celebrating. I stopped to briefly chat with some of the participants, and we made our way to the takeout. Smiles all around. Daddy’s Creek delivers.

Check out these videos from the run: From Scott Puthoff From John Wiser

For more information on Daddy’s Creek, check out the page on American Whitewater: http://www. americanwhitewater.org/content/River/detail/ id/1740/.

The Paddler Tattler February 2015 14 Running the Amazon by Joe Kane Reviewing a 1989 National Bestseller

What is the ultimate first descent of a The project was the brainchild of Dr. François Odendaal river? Is it making it down the longest who spoke English with a guttural, Germanic tone that was river? Down the steepest river? Own the Afrikaans. He wanted to become the first man to navigate river with the most flow? Down the river the length of ‘the greatest of all rivers,’ the Amazon. To quote with the most rapids? The hardest rapids? the book, ‘Odendaal’s expedition would begin with a climb Take your pick. Perhaps Running the to the source of the Amazon, a snowfield high in the Andes. Amazon tells the story of that ultimate first Then his team would mount whitewater kayaks, which they descent where all of these criteria are all would paddle some four hundred miles down the Apurimac, rolled into one epic journey and adventure. one of the most dangerous whitewater rivers on Earth. Once on the jungle floor, they would switch to sea kayaks by John Hubbard for the three thousand eight hundred mile haul through the Amazon basin to the Atlantic Ocean. Odendaal estimated his What is the ultimate first descent of a river? Is it making it journey would take four months.’ down the longest river? Down the steepest river? Own the river with the most flow? Down the river with the most This is a story about the people and their egos making a rapids? The hardest rapids? Take your pick. Perhaps Running trip that would test them all to the limit. It’s Odendaal’s the Amazon tells the story of that ultimate first descent expedition and his money raised. But he is not really a good where all of these criteria are all rolled into one epic journey enough kayaker for the trip. Zbigniew has the drive and and adventure. tenacity and logistical skills to make the project a success. Tim has the skills to navigate the river. But can even Tim hand Joe Kane tells the ‘story of the first expedition to run hold Odendaal well enough to make it down the river alive? the entire length of the Earth’s longest river.’ It’s a terrific Joe had never kayaked before accepting the offer to join. adventure says the LA Times. It all starts in southern Peru But he has to make it all the way on the river to tell the story. in late August 1985 in a GMC flatbed bouncing through A continuing subplot is the feud between Odendaal, who the high Andean badlands known as the puna, with five insists he is in charge and will navigate the entire river, and adventurers. They are 30 year old Pole Zbigniew Bzdak, the Zbigniew, who actually can get the job done. real leader and driving force, his partner Piotr Chmielinski, Running the Amazon, by Joe Kane South African Tim Biggs, world class kayaker and to be In the end, it is Joe and Piotr Chmielinski who make it all the lead kayaker, Dr. Kate Durrant, British doctor charged with way from a small trickle of the Apurimac high in the Andes keeping everyone healthy, and Joe Kane, asked to be the to the mouth of the Amazon feeding into the Atlantic Ocean, photographer/journalist and finding the chance to jump out six months and 4200 miles later. of a boring newspaper job. Four others round out the team.

The Paddler Tattler February 2015 15 I will quote the back leaf of the book: ‘Joe Kane’s personal account of the first expedition to travel the entirety of the world’s longest river is a riveting Rescue Skills Demo adventure in the tradition of Joseph Conrad, filled with death-defying encounters: with narco-trafficers and Sendero Luminoso guerrillas and nature at “Knot” Your Average Workshop its most unforgiving. Not least of all, Running the Amazon shows a polyglot group of urbanized As part of Outdoor Chattanooga’s Winter travelers confronting their wilder selves – their fear Workshop series, TVCC’s Safety Guru and egotism, selflessness, and courage.’ Mike Shillinger led a session on important This was a fun and enjoyable read. Get the book and rescue knots and rope work for both enjoy yourself. club members and the general public. Participants had the chance to practice Not long after reading this book, I got a copy of the tying knots and watch demonstrations of Jul/Aug 2013 American Whitewater magazine. In it rope throws and a Z-drag! was a story about the ‘Grand Canyon of the Amazon: Rio Marañon. Rocky Contros spent six months (2012) paddling the four main headwaters of the Amazon: Rios Marañon, Mantaro, Apurimac, and Urubamba, and then finishing with a descent of the Amazon to the Atlantic. In the article, he talks about the book and Piotr Chmielinski from the first expedition who accompanies Rocky Contros on some of the (above) Mike reconnaissance expedition. Talk about coming full Shillinger circle. Plus the article talks about the Rio Marañon demonstrates proper being a river comparable or maybe better than the belay technique Grand Canyon. It is raftable all year long with two as he reels in his Class V drops and no . Rocky says it ought to “swimmer”, Bruce be on everyone’s bucket list, and without the Grand Foster, who has Canyon’s permit waiting list. suffered a mishap on the imaginary river.

(right) Heather Curry practices tying a prussik knot, which Spence Lycan plays the part of the tree while Mike creates a brake on a Shillinger explains how to tie a Figure 8 around his larger diamter rope. trunk. (Photos: Ashley Teel & (Photo: Meryl Stark) Meryl Stark) The Paddler Tattler February 2015 16 equipment, setup and getting the shot. Then go shoot some video and come back for Part Two: Editing Essentials.

Winter Workshop Instructors: Louis Lee, Drew Renner, Corey Wentz

FEBRUARY 12—EDITING ESSENTIALS (CLASS Series #2) You have an hour of helmet cam video from your first Ocoee Thursdays @ Outdoor Chattanooga run. Now what?

A classroom based workshop series Andy Johns: Freelance writer, founder of the Lookout Wild designed to further connect you with the Film Festival. outdoors! Louis Lee: Career broadcast professional, photographer and videographer. Founder and principle of L2Images. Thursdays in February at 6:30pm Drew Renner: Director of photography and founder of Outdoor Chattanooga Shade Tree Films. Owner of Amped Super Sports. 200 River Street (in Coolidge Park) Corey Wentz: Climber, freelance photographer, Cost: Free videographer and Web designer.

For more information, contact Outdoor Chattanooga. Chris Willis: Assistant Professor of Mass Communications Learn how to upload, edit and fine tune your raw video, www.outdoorchattanooga.com; 423-643-6888 and Film at Chattanooga State Community College. including where to find software and online resources for MAKE YOUR OWN OUTDOOR VIDEO: FEBRUARY 5—GETTING THE SHOT (CLASS #1) editing. Edit your footage into a short video (4 minutes or SHOOTING, EDITING, AND SHARING less) and bring it to the next session: It’s a Wrap!

Co-hosted by Looking Instructors: Louis Lee, Drew Renner, Chris Willis Wild Film Festival. FEBRUARY 19—IT’S A WRAP! (CLASS #3) Learn about the essential skills and equipment that you need to shoot, edit, and share beautiful and compelling outdoor videos. Attend all three workshops, or only the one that you need. No equipment is necessary. Learn about camera equipment and the essential skills INSTRUCTORS needed to shoot your outdoor action or nature video. Terri Chapin: Outdoor recreation professional and former whitewater photographer and videographer. Professional videographers will share their expertise on The Paddler Tattler February 2015 17 Bring your outdoor/nature/wilderness video of 4 minutes or less to this class for a free critique by professional videographers and film selection board Outdoor Chattanooga members from the Lookout Wild Film Festival.

Students can get answers to lingering questions, as well as advice on how to fine tune, share and promote Roll Practice their videos.

Guest Panel: Terri Chapin, Andy Johns, Louis Lee, Drew Renner

FEBRUARY 26—HOW TO POOP IN THE WOODS

From day hikers to professional outdoor athletes, a growing number of people head to the woods pondering this question, and the negative impacts on the landscape are escalating. Fall/Winter Roll and Kayak Skills practice will take place on Note: Southern Adventist’s dress code emphasizes modesty select Tuesdays at Southern Adventist University’s Hulsey and cleanliness. Please wear modest workout and pool Wellness Center. There are two sessions—7pm and 8pm. apparel, including one-piece swimsuits. Anticipate only being in the water for one session; if it is busy, the pool gets crowded quickly. Hulsey Wellness Center 4870 University Drive • February 3rd, 10th Collegedale, TN 37315 • March 3rd https://www.southern.edu/wellness/Pages/default.aspx • April 7th, 14th For more information, contact Outdoor Chattanooga. Learn proper disposal techniques for personal waste, Admission to the pool is $2, and roll class is $10/person for 423-643-6888 or [email protected]. pet waste and food scraps while in the back or front non-members. Non-members must provide their own gear. country. Learn when catholes are advisable, and Outdoor Chattanooga annual membership are $75/individu- also how to pack out waste from various outdoor al or $125/family. First session is free for new participants. environments. Boats and gear should be dropped off at the door at the back side of the Hulsey Wellness Center, to the right of the track, About the Instructor: Terri Chapin is a Leave No next to the heating and air units. Outdoor Chattanooga staff Trace Master Educator and the Recreation Programs will bring your boat to the pool. Your kayak must be clean in Coordinator for Outdoor Chattanooga. She has led order to bring it into the pool. hundreds of trips into a wide variety of primitive and developed outdoor environments.

The Paddler Tattler February 2015 18 clothes. Dry them off, then protect them from losing more heat. That means dry clothes, a blanket, a sleeping bag, or get Hypothermia: them into a heated area like a car or building. If you are in a remote location, consider building a fire and a shelter.

If the person is conscious, you can give them some warm Precautions & Prevention sugary fluids without caffeine. Hypothermia plays some serious games with the kidneys so they will need fluid to keep from getting dehydrated. The sugar helps to warm First Aid with Larry them too. Carbs are burned quickly and can give a rapid bump to the metabolism. Proteins and fats burn slower over by Larry Boothby and extreme shivering. There is a loss of coordination and a longer time, but be careful with food. Blood shunted away speech becomes slurred. As the temperature drops to 93.2°F, from the stomach during the event shuts down digestion The human body, at its most basic, is nothing more than judgement becomes increasingly impaired. The person may and can make the person vomit if they try to eat too much a mass of chemical reactions taking place all at the same appear intoxicated or confused. Below 93°F is the moderate too soon. Start slowly and build up to more complex food time. For this chemistry to function properly, the body must hypothermia range. In addition to the person becoming items. At this stage of hypothermia, we are trying to stop the maintain itself within a narrow range of temperatures. If the lethargic and less responsive, we see the beginning of cooling process and allow the body to build heat naturally. body gets too hot or too cold, the chemistry stops working, respiratory depression (or slowing), and instability of the Passive heating will help, but really we are just supporting air stops going in and out, and blood stops going round and heart. Once the temperature gets down to 86°F, hypothermia the body. Now I realize that for many of us, whiskey is a cure round. As whitewater paddlers, our primary concern is going is now severe. Shivering stops, and the body temp plummets. all / recovery drink, and while I am a firm believer in the to be the low end of the temperature range, or hypothermia, The metabolic rate drops by half. Respirations, heart rate, medicinal qualities of a stiff shot of whiskey, this is not the which is this month’s topic. As always, reading this does not and blood pressure continue to drop. Blood pH changes time. Alcohol causes the blood vessels in the extremities to qualify you to be an expert in emergency medicine or first and electrolytes become imbalanced. The person will fall open up, which brings along a boat load of other problems. aid. It should give you an awareness of the problem, and unconscious and the heart may spontaneously develop Save the flask for celebration after the person is warm. hopefully encourage you to take a class and get real training. any number of lethal rhythms. When that happens the Once we enter the moderate through severe range, the Normal everyday body temp is 98.6°F. By definition, heart stops pumping blood and the game is over. However, game changes dramatically. First, the person will probably hypothermia is anything below 95°F, but as always, it’s not these numbers are not hard and fast. Every person will react not be able to move on their own, which means you will that simple. Physiologically, there is a cascade of events that differently. have to carry them. This brings on its own issues. As the occur as the body attempts to keep warm. With the initial Managing hypothermia is very dependent on the body body cools, the heart becomes more irritable. If the person cold exposure, the body will release chemicals that will cause core temp of the person. The best way to manage it is to is moved abruptly or jarred about, the heart may enter a the peripheral blood vessels in the arms and legs to constrict. avoid it. Proper planning and equipment is key. In the event rhythm called ventricular fibrillation. What that means to This shunts blood to the core of the body and the vital that a paddler becomes hypothermic, the most important you is CPR because the heart has stopped beating properly. organs: heart, lungs, and brain. These chemicals also cause thing is early recognition and intervention. In treating mild The other issue involved is how to warm them. Just like the the heart rate and respiratory rate to increase. The person’s to moderate hypothermia, the first step is always to remove mild situation, we want to remove them from the cold, but metabolism is slowed to generate heat, and muscle tone the person from the cold environment. Immersion in cold as hypothermia progresses the body loses its ability to warm increases to generate even more heat through shivering. water will remove heat about 25x faster than dry air, and itself. Out on the river we don’t have the tools to safely re- wet clothes will remove heat about 5 times faster than dry warm a moderate to severe patient. These people require Between 96.8° and 93.2°F is considered mild hypothermia. body core re-warming first. If you warm the extremities you The person will experience numbness of the extremities clothes. We need to get them out of the river and out of wet The Paddler Tattler February 2015 19 will cause the blood vessels to open back up, blood pressure will drop, and it will release lethal chemicals into the core of the body. This will cause a situation requiring CPR: Historically Preparation & Packaging of not a good outcome. So for cases of moderate or greater hypothermia, we are going to need get them out of the cold, and get them dry and protect them from further cooling. At a Hypothermic Victim the same time we need to call 911 or activate an emergency beacon. You’re going to need professional help at this point. Finally one last word about CPR: THEY’RE NOT DEAD UNTIL THEY’RE WARM AND DEAD! We don’t stop CPR until they are warm, and that means a hospital.

So how do we keep this from happening in the first place? As paddlers, if the water temperature is less than 60°F or the combined air and water temperatures is less than 120°F, then we need to consider thermal protection. The 5-50-50 rule states that an unprotected swimmer has 5 minutes to swim 50 yards in 50 degree water, and has a 50/50 chance of survival. So that means dressing for the swim, and that is an entire article by itself. The other thing to consider is the The first layer is an emergency blanket to reflect heat back inward. This is followed by two sleeping bag layers to remoteness of your paddle. If you’re paddling roadside you provide loft and trap warm air. You can also place hot water bottles in between the layers as is shown here. Do can get by with just the gear you’re wearing. As you venture not place them directly on the patient’s skin. Finally is the vapor barrier layer. It is important to remember that the deeper into the wilderness, you need to start considering patient needs to be completely dry, and to fully cover the patient’s head with each layer, as this is one area where emergency gear: space blankets, dry clothing, fire starters or vast amounts of heat are lost. Remember, we are not re-warming hypothermic patients in the field. The goal is maybe even a camp stove with a pot. Food also becomes to stop the heat loss so they can re-warm through their own metabolism, or to keep them from getting worse a consideration in case you need to treat someone. I realize on the way to the hospital. If the patient is laying outdoors on the ground, you need to get a ground pad under this sounds a little extreme, but consider this. You walk 40 them to keep the earth from sucking the heat from them. If they are in some type of hammock, you need to use minutes to the put-in and start paddling. You take a swim, an underquilt. The weight of their body will compress the loft in the sleeping bags and you lose the insulation rub up against a sharp rock and rip a hole in your dry suit. properties. You can rig an underquilt with a regular sleeping bag if you need to. It’s 40°F, you’re soaked to the skin, the wind is blowing at 5-10 mph, and you are now in a life-threatening situation. If you are not equipped to deal with it, you and your friends are going to have a very bad day. Remember, proper prior planning prevents piss poor performance. Especially in the cold.

If you have questions, comments, or suggestions for future articles, I can be reached at [email protected].

SYOTR! The Paddler Tattler February 2015 20 Flatwater Does Florida December 27th–January 1st by Carolyn Rand On our first day, we paddled the Homosassa River, which was Two days after Christmas, our overnight group big and open. There was a small island that had monkeys leaves for our annual week-long Florida trip. living on it near the marina. After that, we paddled our This year we stayed at the Care Free RV Center in favorite smaller, clear rivers that we had done on past trips. Homosassa, and it turned out to be a very nice These rivers included Crystal River (3 sisters), Rainbow campground. It even had a heated pool Springs, and the Weeki Wachee River. All of these rivers had that Pat, Lisa, and Caroline took a dip in. Some of manatees, but I was amazed at the one river I didn’t associate us rented campers that were already there, some manatees with. Ben and I were sharing a canoe the last day brought their own, and others stayed in tents. on the Chassahowitzka, and when we paddled into one The weather was very cooperative. There were a of the coves, we were amazed at how friendly one of the couple of foggy, misty mornings, but overall the manatees was. She came straight up to the boat and rolled temperatures reached the mid 70s with sun by over for Ben to pet her stomach. Then she put her front fin in noon every day. his hand, and Ben could rub and feel her finger nails (claws). (above) Manatees were a mainstay on several of the She kept rolling over for about a half hour to be rubbed, but It was nice to see some new people on the trip rivers on this trip. then started putting her face on Ben’s hand to ask for a chin this year. Shane and Seth Rogers came down with rub. We could see her whiskers and mouth really well. I had their family, and work friend Ken Hudson. I’m glad (below) Ben Johnson reaches out of his canoe to pet a manatee on the Homosassa River. never seen a manatee’s mouth before. It looked kind of like Gary and Judy Petty could come, and it was nice a snout only turned sideways so she could grab food from to see Judith with Don in a boat again after a long (Photos: Garry Petty) the sides instead of top and bottom. She started nibbling his absence. It was good to get to know Sharon and hand with her mouth and asking to be rubbed over and over. Carla better and to visit with John and Savannah One kept coming up to Gary’s canoe also. I think they liked again. Ben brought his sister and extended family. green boats which we both had. I was amazed. I had never I’m looking forward to visiting with them more on seen manatees lift their heads out of the water and put their the 3 day BSF trip in May. noses right into people’s hands before, especially for that Beth and Ben are such great leaders, so calm and duration of time. Usually they just come up for air now and steady in the process of herding cats going in then, and then go back down. all directions, to and down the rivers. Thank Crystal River is the place that is known for the manatees, you both for the great job you did. I wish I had but with all the snorkelers there, the poor manatees just try more time to visit with everyone’s families, to get away from people. After we had gotten back to the but look forward to that on smaller trips cars at Crystal River, I was sitting on the beach with Mike, throughout the year. watching Lisa swim in the river. I think Lisa swam in every The Paddler Tattler February 2015 21 river we paddled this trip. Mike had fallen Maps, so we got off and asleep in the sun, and I was resting in the took a side road around shade of a tree. Pat and Caroline drove by it. It wasn’t until the next and said to follow them, so I did, even though day that Ben called and I wanted to go eat shrimp later with Mike told me some truck had and Lisa. My husband has said before, that taken out a bridge. he thinks I would follow anyone blindly if I thought it would lead me on an adventure, so The week always comes I guess I proved him right. (Goodbye, shrimp.) to an end way too soon. I didn’t know where we were going, but yes, I Every year I think to followed them blindly to see where they would myself, “Why am I going lead me. We ended up on the Withlocoochee, which down again to do the Anne Barca told Pat about. I love paddling on the same thing?”, but every Withlocoochee, but that day, it was swollen past its year I love it and know banks and moving along. It was an upriver paddle I will be back again, on to a spring head which we never got to see because December 27th. Pat of the swift water. After paddling hard for about 2 Carver will be leading hours, we asked for directions to the hole which we us on some totally new thought we were almost at, and several people said Florida rivers on the next it was still a mile further up river and washed out by trip, so I want to thank her the high water, so we turned around and headed in advance for that! back since it was getting late. I think it took us less than a half hour to get back to the put-in. Zoom. Paddlers enjoy their various watercrafts as they navigate through the rivers and brush of Florida. The last river we did was the Weeki Wachee, which I love. The water is clear turquoise and moves right (Photos: Garry Petty & Pat Carver) along so you don’t really have to paddle. It reminds me a lot of Juniper Springs. I always take tons of pictures there, which I already have multiple copies of. That is why I love the backwaters of Florida; they are just beautiful.

Some paddled the Ichitucknee on the way home, but we were too far down the road when Pat called to tell us about it. Even with us heading straight back, it was a long trip home with both sides of the interstate completely closed near Atlanta. I didn’t know why at the time, but could just see a lot of red on Google

The Paddler Tattler February 2015 22 Overnighters 2015 Calendar

March 28th-30th—Toccoa May 29th-31st—Paddle School have to carry it in your boat. Trip Leader: Jim Warner. River 3 Day Trip Register online at tvccpaddler.com. [email protected]. Contact Carolyn Rand. CarolynMRand@ June 14th-21st—Buffalo River in Arkansas Sept 5th—Girl Scout Raft Race gmail.com; 423-400-2590 (Week Long) Club meeting with elections to follow. April 11th-12th—Upper Clear warm water, camping on clean rock bars. Sept 12th-13th—Elk River Coosawattee River (WW) Beautiful cliffs. Contact Ben Johnson. Contact Uwe Zitzow. [email protected]. Whitewater overnight trip; Class II-III for this [email protected]. weekend. Trip Leader: Don Bodley. Contact Sept 26th-28th—Toccoa River 3 Day Trip June 28th—Waterfront Carolyn Rand. [email protected]; Contact Carolyn Rand. [email protected]. Volunteering 423-400-2590 Meet at the GPS Boat Dock at 6:30am. Contact Taylor Sept 27th—Ironman Triathlon April 11th-12th—Lower Watson. [email protected]. Volunteering Coosawattee (Flat) July 11th-12th—Little TN River Will be with a GA Paddling Club. Contact Eric Oct 3rd—TN River Rescue Contact Carolyn Rand. [email protected]; Contact Jim Ledbetter. [email protected]. Fleming. 423-400-2590. (Back up plan is TN River Blueway Oct 11th-17th—Current River (MO) April 25th-26th—Talking Rock with camping at Pot Point House.) Weeklong overnighter trip. When not on river, we Trip Leader & Contact: Uwe Zitzow. July 25th-26th—Rescue Rodeo & Big will be at base camp at Big Spring and travel to [email protected]. Brother/Big Sister Rafting other lcoations from there. Contact Gary Petty. May 10th-15th—Cahaba River in Camping at Hiwassee Outfitters between these two [email protected]. Alabama events. Contact Jim Ledbetter. [email protected]. Contact Buddy Wise. Bwise.legal@yahoo. Oct 10th—Ocoee Race Aug 9th—Sports Barn Triathlon com; Contact Taylor Watson. [email protected]. Oct 25th—Boo Run (Ocoee) 205-672-9025 Nov 14th-15th—Etowah River Aug 11th-20th—Boundary Waters May 23rd-25th—Big South Fork Contact Jamie Wendt. [email protected]. Contact Ed Parks. [email protected]; 423-400- 3 Day Trip 9530 Memorial Day Weekend. Trip Leader: NOTE: Andrew Bosley has applied for Smith River permits sometime this summer. Carolyn will post Don Bodley. Contact Carolyn Rand. Aug 15th-16th—Lake Jocassee dates if we get the permit. [email protected]; 423-400- Crystal Clear lake with waterfalls. The outfitter takes 2590 your gear to the campsite on an island, so you don’t The Paddler Tattler February 2015 23 Flatwater Paddlers 2015 Calendar

Note our new name! We are June 28th. Waterfront Triathlon Support. Taylor. 0ct 10th. 10 mile TN River Swim support boaters. now the Flatwater Paddlers, in (S). Karah. July 11th. Ocoee #1 Dam to Two Rivers order to be more inclusive of Campground. (C), (S). Eric. Oct 10th. TVCC Ocoee Whitewater Race. , Rec Boats, Sit-on-tops, SUPs, and any other calm-water July 25th. TN Riverpark Cookout and sunset Oct 17th-18th. TN River Gorge Overnighter. (S). crafts. paddle. (S). Eric. Ben.

No planned for February. July 26th. Big Brother/Big Sister Raft Trip Oct 24th. Hales Bar. Eric. Support. Hiwassee River. (C), (S). Jim. March 28th. Harrison Islands. Eric. Nov 7th. South Chick, Sterchi Farm. Eric. Aug 8th. Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge. Eric. April 11th-12th. Coosawattee River, GA. Nov 14th-15th. Etowah River Overnighter. (C), Day or camping. (C). Eric. Aug 9th. Dam Triathlon Support Boaters. Taylor. (S). Jamie.

April 25th. Chickamauga to Reeds Rd, Aug 15th. West Chick, Reeds Road to Dietz Road, Dec 12th. Club Christmas Party. GA. (C),(S). Eric. GA. (C), (S). Eric. Dec 27th-Jan 1st. Annual Florida Trip. May 2nd. Sale Creek. Eric. Aug 15th-16th. Lake Jocassee, SC. Overnighter. Richard. May 16th. Soddy Creek. Eric. Aug 22nd. Cookout and sunset paddle to Bat May 23rd. Oostanaula River, GA. (C), (S). Cave. Eric. Eric. Sept 5th. Girl Scout Raft Race Support Boaters. May 29th-31st. Paddle School. Lower Hiwassee. (C), (S). Taylor. June 6th. Graysville to Camp Jordan. (C), Sept 5th. TVCC Meeting, Elections, and (S). Eric. Camping. OAR. Don. Flatwater floaters enjoy the Florida flora and fauna during the 2014 New Year’s Trip. (Photo: Gary Petty) June 14th-21st. Buffalo River, Sept 6th. Wolftever Creek. Eric. Arkansas. Ben. All dates and places are subject to change. All paddles are Sept 12th-13th. Elk River Overnighter. (C), (S). in Tennessee unless otherwise noted. Check your email the June 20th. Wolftever to Demo Day Uwe. night before a trip for any changes. All paddles are rain or at Harrison Bay. Eric. Sept 19th. Harrison Bay North. Eric. shine. June 27th. North Chick and Dam C = Indicates Current, but no more than Class I Rapids. Oct 3rd. TN River Rescue. Jim. S = Indicates a one-way trip requiring a Shuttle. Lock Through. Eric. The Paddler Tattler February 2015 24 TVCC Yahoo Group The Paddler Tattler is the monthly publication of the Tennessee All club members are invited to join the club’s Our Mission Valley Canoe Club. online paddling forum. The Yahoo Group is a great place to find out about paddling trips in The Tennessee Valley Canoe Club brings together those interested in canoeing, The Paddler Tattler invites submissions of addition to those posted in the newsletter, post kayaking, and related activities; increases the knowledge, safety, and appreciation articles, trip reports, videos, and any other pictures and trip reports of your latest adventures, of paddle sports for those who are interested; and supports conservation and news or information of interest to the paddling or just find someone to go paddle with. preservation of recreational waterways. community. The only requirement for the forum is active Submit an electronic copy no later than the Membership is open to persons of all ages. Both families and singles are welcome. membership in the club. To join, go to http:// 20th of each month to the newsletter editor by groups.yahoo.com/group/tvcc/ and click on emailing [email protected]. Submissions The club’s activities include: “Join This Group”. Please be patient and allow a may be edited. • Whitewater & flat water kayak and canoe training few days for the page administrator to respond • Whitewater & flat water river trips for all skill levels and accept your membership. Send an email Past issues of the Paddler Tattler can be accessed to the group moderator at tvcc-subscribe@ online at: • Water safety & rescue training yahoogroups.com with your name. See you on http://tinyurl.com/tvccpastnewsletters. • Extended canoe & camping trips the river! • Annual & monthly meetings Flatwater Email List • Community service The TVCC Flatwater Paddlers use an email contact list to send out information about upcoming Tennessee Valley Canoe Club events. To be added to this list, please send P.O. Box 11582 an email the TVCC Sea Kayak Cruise Master at Chattanooga, TN 37401 2014-2015 Officers [email protected]. www.tvccpaddler.com President Secretary Safety Chair Cruisemaster III, Overnight Don Fletcher John Hubbard Mike Shillinger Paddling Group [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Carolyn Rand [email protected] Vice President Newsletter Editor Public Relations Chair Ashley Teel Meryl Stark Katie LaRue Cruisemaster IV, Non- [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Paddling Jen Maxwell & Rebecca Hendrix Assistant Vice President Webmaster Cruisemaster I, Class II/III [email protected] LaDawn Wolfe Teri Zur Spence “Dogpaddle” Lycan [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Cruisemaster V, Sea Kayaks Eric Fleming Treasurer River Conservation Chair Cruisemaster II, Class III/IV [email protected] Debby McRae Jim Ledbetter Brandon Koch [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] The Paddler Tattler February 2015 25