31. July 2011 by Bill & Marybeth.

Our 2011 Grand jean weekend was outstanding, and well worth our time from many perspectives. First off, it was downright Fun as everyone came with a smile on their face and left with one too. All humans and critters were safe, but a few sore muscles have been reported.

Second, there was fireside Cross cut Saw training put on by Sawtooth trail ranger Deb Peters on Friday.  This was some great Education for us and demonstrates our continuing partnership with the Sawtooth Ranger District.

Third, a small group of “willing volunteers” got some practical experience on the North Barron Creek trail, using the Chapter’s Saw purchased last year. At the same time on Saturday, other members rode different trails removing down fall when encountered. Even our newest member, Laurie Bryant (AKA the Wanderer) was having Fun brushing out trails and got to experience that BCH is more than just a riding club.

On Sunday some riders headed out and Bill & I finally got to the top & enjoyed Trail Lakes. The scenery was breath taking and I believe Linda Hays went thru 29 rolls of film that day.
The Meals were delicious and showed the culinary talents and creativity of our membership. So, while you are reflecting on the great time had by all, please get on the website and log your hours. I know the navigation is a bit different, but let’s try to enter the information. If you get stuck and are ready the throw the computer out the window, Rob is always willing to help.

Please check out our activities and participate when you can. Packers Play Day is right around the corner and that is always Fun, plus it promotes our organization to the Emmett community.  Calendars are coming too.

Hope to see you on the Trail, Marybeth Conger

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4. July 2011 by Bill & Marybeth.

While at the Co-Op buying a plant, my phone rang. It was a local TV reporter who, after checking out our Website, viewing the photos, & reading the May/June Newsletter was hoping to film some recreational riding activities with SBBCH.  He is reviewing his schedule and plans to get back with me, but how cool is this that he called? Everything we do, such as Meeting attendance, Public outreach clinics, Photo submission, Education endeavors, Articles from us for our Newsletter, Volunteer hours, Rides and Trail activities, updates by our Webmaster, etc. is making a difference and getting our message out there. People are noticing.

In July we have some outstanding fun projects, so please come to what you can. There is the Crooked Creek Trail Project July 2, 3, 4 in Idaho City that has some beautiful scenery. Next is the July 23 and 24 Grand Jean North Baron Creek trail Project.  There are only so many heart beats on the trail project but the rest of the group could enjoy a fun ride in another area.  This is a great area for our members to recreate in, so please consider this one.

Now, I would like to acknowledge the new members that have joined SBBCH this year, so please welcome them to our Chapter when you see them:  Mildred Bryant, Heather Holloway along with Ron and Diane Woods - Jan 2011, Tia Davis- March 2011, Sharon Prindel, Jim Reid, along with Bob and Pam VanHooser- April 2011, and lastly Bill and Lois Murphy June 2011. Let’s always make them feel welcome. So….. how about making a quick phone call to a new member that might be close to you and invite them to an event.

Next, I would like to give kudos to Dan Murphy who joined the Chapter in 2008 with his wife Connie. You will recall that Dan put together the Radio package (x four) which helps us to communicate on the trail and stay safe.  He also volunteered his time and taught First Aide/CPR to us and is willing to teach a more advanced course to members.  YEAH!  Your BOD approved the $200 course cost with more details to follow.  He is also working on the Chapter First Aid kit with Doc Shannon and Ellen, offering his practical insight. I am sure they will be upgrading the kit and training all of us on what’s in there in the near future.

The July photo is a picture of Phil Ryan, setting up a high line for my Horse Fred at Grandjean, as he (Phil) is always the gentleman. It is nice to have friends and members that are willing to trailer share.

See you on the trail, MB Conger

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