Thu, Jul 28 2016 - Free Class at REI: Camping Basics (View Original Event Details) Trip Leader(s): Charlie Cottingham Participants: Jackie C, Charlie Cottingham, Huiling, Clay White, Elvi, Tom, Peter, Jane H, Norman Pollard, Ron Nichols, Chris R

REI gear specialist Brian Matthews did a nice job hosting this tutorial and we AOCers took advantage of his invitation to "spread the gospel" about our fine Club among the other attendees from the general public.  We expect to get several fine new members from the dozen or more other outdoor enthusiasts who had been unaware of the AOC.  We especially enjoyed the "hands on" gear session at the end of the clinic during which we actually put up and took down one of REI's hottest new tents in the middle of the store.  Among other things we discussed were tent & sleeping bag styles, alternate sleep systems, food & stoves, critter protection, and a few favorite suggested destinations.  -Charlie