gopherhockey
05-02-2004, 08:01 PM
Welcome to the REI Events Update. It is warming up nicely for paddling season and our second annual Paddlefest is coming on May 15th. Try out a variety of boats, experience a Voyageur canoe with Wilderness Inquiry, and connect with local clubs and upcoming events. It will be a fine day to be paddling. In another nod to paddlers we are again partnering with Dakota County to offer our 3-part Boundary Waters series. This series will cover every aspect of planning a trip, including some on-the-water and portaging time. If you are interested in technology or in just staying found, our GPS navigation series is for you. We combine both indoor and outdoor components that will set you on your way to greater confidence in those unfamiliar places. Mark your calendars for National Trail's Day on Saturday, June 5th. REI and the Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists (MORC) will be hosting a service project in a Metro park. Details are coming soon. Scroll down for all May clinics and events.
REI Bloomington
494 & Lyndale 952/884-4315
REI Roseville
Cty B2 & Prior 651/635-0211
Shop on-line and sign up for REI's Gear Mail e-mail newsletter at http://www.rei.com (http://www.rei.com/)
ADVENTURE RACING
ADVENTURE RACING 101
Wednesday, May 12th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Wednesday, May 26th at 7 PM
REI Roseville
You've seen the race footage on TV, but what does it really take to be an adventure racer? Join veteran racer Dan Williams as he discusses what it takes to get started, how to get connected with other racers, and information about local races and events. As a member of Team Northstar from the Eco Challenge New Zealand and Team Iron Range from the Eco Challenge Borneo, Dan has tons of knowledge and experience and that can help make your dream of adventure racing a reality.
ORIENTEERING FOR ADVENTURE RACERS
Thursday, May 13th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Gain a competitive edge for this season's races. Strong orienteering skills are a must when competing in an adventure race. Join members of the Minnesota Orienteering Club as they cover the map and compass necessities for the adventure racer. Navigation principles, route selection, and UTM grid maps are a few of the topics that will be addressed.
CYCLING
BASIC BIKE MAINTENANCE
Thursday, May 6th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Every rider should know a few things about keeping their bike running smoothly and this is your chance to learn. REI staff will cover changing a flat tire, maintaining a healthy chain, making simple brake adjustments, and identifying trouble spots that might require a mechanic. Learning happens best when it is done hands on. Please bring your front wheel to hone your tire changing skills. Whether you ride on-road, off-road, race, or just race around the neighborhood, this clinic will help keep your bike going.
CAMPING/HIKING
BACKPACKING ISLE ROYALE
Monday, May 24th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
REI's Tony Wagner will present slides and information on backpacking Lake Superior's Isle Royale National Park. Just miles off Minnesota's North Shore, the park is considered one of the Upper Midwest's premier backpacking destinations. Tony will share insights on route selection, ferry services and island wildlife.
INTRO TO GPS
Tuesday, May 4th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Wednesday, May 5th at 7 PM
REI Roseville
Our most popular clinic! Anyone who spends time in the outdoors should understand this powerful handheld navigation system. REI expert staff will give this informative clinic on the basics of choosing and using the GPS technology to aid you in your outdoor adventures. The clinic will also cover GPS compatible mapping software.
GPS NAVIGATION FIELD DAY
Saturday, May 8th from 9 AM to 2 PM
REI Bloomington and Lake Jensen, Lebanon Hills Regional Park, Eagan
Great hands-on, in-the-field opportunity to improve your navigation skills hosted by REI and National Geographic Maps. Learn how to use your GPS unit in conjunction with maps and mapping software. The program is intended to teach useful skills for hikers, mountain bikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Attendance at Intro to GPS (see description above) is required. Participants must bring their own GPS unit.
Pre-register (required) by calling REI Bloomington at 952/ 884-4315 x9.
Fee: $15 for REI members
$20 for non-members
BACKPACKING BASICS
Wednesday, May 19th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Join an experienced REI backpacker for an informative session on selecting backpacking gear, choosing clothing, and general trip planning advice. The clinic will be full of great tips to get you on the trail. Recommendations on great places to go backpacking in Minnesota and around the extended region will also be given.
PADDLING
KAYAKING 101
Monday, May 3rd at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Local instructors from Paddlemasters will offer the information you need to start paddling this summer. They will tell you how to buy your first sea kayak, fit your PFD, and properly size a paddle. In addition, learn about local clubs and great kayaking places as well as where to find instruction to take those first steps.
INTRO TO SEA KAYAKING
Wednesday, May 12th at 7 PM
REI Roseville
Join Stellar Sager from the Superior Kayaking and Outdoor Adventure Club (SKOAC) for all the information and advice you need to get into sea kayaking. She will cover buying the right boat, fitting a PFD, and talk about accessories to keep you safe and comfortable. In addition, she will address some great places to go as well opportunities for local lessons.
REI's PADDLEFEST AND ON-THE-WATER BOAT DEMO Saturday, May 15th from 11 AM to 3 PM Schulze Lake, Lebanon Hills Regional Park, Eagan Co-sponsored by Dakota County Parks
This is our biggest boat demo of the season! All of the information you need to get paddling this summer is at Paddlefest. Join REI staff on the water to test paddle a variety of great canoes and kayaks. See how design and materials affect performance and decide which boat best meets your needs. Talk with members of local paddling clubs and register to win a new PFD. All participants will receive a coupon for 15% off of the purchase of a new boat.
GREENLAND STYLE PADDLING TECHNIQUES
Monday, May 17th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Join the Inland Sea Kayakers for their monthly program meeting. This month they will present traditional Greenland-style paddling techniques. For thousands of years these skills, combined with specialized hand-made craft and equipment, allowed hunters in the Arctic to paddle in some of the harshest conditions imaginable. Come learn about some of the paddling, bracing, and rolling techniques. You can also see traditional skin-on-frame boats, paddles, and other equipment and learn how you can make them yourself.
BOUNDARY WATERS 101
Tuesday, May 18th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Wednesday, May 19th at 7 PM
REI Roseville
A jam-packed session on planning and preparing your own Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) adventure with trip tested ideas and suggestions from an experienced REI staff member. Topics will include an overview of the BWCAW, information on permits, equipment, clothing, food and more. Trip Planning sessions 102 and 103 are not required to attend this session.
BOUNDARY WATERS 102
Tuesday, May 25th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
This is a continuation of the basic 101 program on planning Boundary Water's trip. This session provides specific information and examples on how to stow your gear in your pack, distribute your equipment in the canoe, portage efficiently, navigate with Fisher and Mackenzie maps, address safety issues, and hang your food at your campsite. Lastly, the class will emphasize the importance of minimum impact camping. Trip planning sessions 101 and 103 are not required to attend this session.
BOUNDARY WATERS 103
Saturday, June 5th from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM Lake Jensen, Lebanon Hills Regional Park, Eagan
Start your canoe trip close to home. This on-water workshop will introduce you to paddling and portaging a canoe on a small chain of lakes in Lebanon Hills Regional Park. After this workshop, you'll have the basic skills needed to do your own Boundary Waters trip. Perfect for beginners. Bring all your own equipment or call to reserve rental equipment. Bring your own lunch, water, and an extra set of warm, dry clothes. Trip Planning sessions 101 and 102 are not required to attend this session.
Registration required. Call Dakota County Parks at 651/438-4737.
Fee: $20/adult and $5/youth (15 & under)
TRAVEL
ADVENTURES IN COSTA RICA
Monday, May 10th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Costa Rica is rich with culture and beautiful lands. Join Wilderness Inquiry for a slideshow and presentation on this intriguing destination. Whether you are looking for a trip, planning your own, or just dreaming of beautiful beaches and deep green jungles, this is a presentation not to be missed.
UPCOMING SALES
REI ANNIVERSARY SALE RUNS MAY 21ST THROUGH THE 31ST.
Great prices on gear and clothing in all departments
Shop 3 ways - visit REI Bloomington or REI Roseville, click http://www.rei.com (http://www.rei.com/) or call 800/426-4840
COMING IN JUNE
NATIONAL TRAIL'S DAY WITH REI AND THE MINNESOTA OFF-ROAD CYCLISTS Saturday, June 5th from 9 AM to 1 PM Metro Location TBA
REI is partnering with the Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists to host a trail-maintenance project in a local park. Here is your chance to pitch in to keep our trail resources in great shape. The project will include a number of tasks to help reroute existing trails and build new trails in the park. REI will provide lunch and a trail volunteer T-shirt; you provide a much needed helping hand. To pre-register (required for lunch count) or for more information contact Don Begalle at 952/884-4315 x203 or email dbegall@rei.com.
WILD ADVENTURE SUMMER SPRINT (MARS RACE #1) Saturday, June 12th at 9 AM Lebanon Hills Regional Park, Eagan
This 2-4 hour race is a great opportunity to sample adventure racing and enter the Minnesota Adventure Race Series. Join other like-minded adventurous teams for a race that will include paddling, mountain biking, orienteering, ropes, and trekking. Find out what all the fuss is about. Visit www.marseries.com (http://www.morcmtb.org/forums/www.marseries.com) for details and registration information.
CLASSES
CLIMBING CLASSES
1st & 3rd Wednesdays of the Month at 6 PM (May 5th or 19th) REI Bloomington Pinnacle
An introductory climbing class taught by a certified Vertical Endeavors instructor. Participants will learn about equipment, knot tying, belay technique, rope work, climbing commands, and safety issues.
The course is $20 for REI members, $30 for non-member and includes the use of climbing shoe and harness. Classes are offered from 6 PM - 9 PM. All students must be at least 14 years of age. Advanced registration and payment is required.
Call 952/ 884-431 5 x 9 to register.
WOMEN ONLY CLIMBING CLASSES
2nd Wednesday of the month at 6 PM (May 12th) REI Bloomington Pinnacle
A Women's only version of our introductory climbing class taught by a certified Vertical Endeavors instructor.
The course is $20 for REI members, $30 for non-member. Students must be at least 14 years of age. Advanced registration and payment is required. Call 952/ 884-4315 x9 to register.
The course is $20 for REI members, $30 for non-member.
FAMILY CLIMBING CLASSES
4th Wednesday of the month at 6 PM (May 26th) REI Bloomington Pinnacle
The Family version of our introductory climbing class. Family classes are open to children under 14 who meet the height requirement and are accompanied in the climbing class by a parent. Advanced registration and payment is required. Call 952/ 884-4315 x9 to register.
The course is $20 for REI members, $30 for non-member.
To remove your name from this list, please reply to dbegall@rei.com and your address will no longer receive these updates.
REI
750 West American Boulevard
Bloomington, MN 55420
Don Begalle
Special Events, Twin Cities REI
952/884-4315 ext. 203
dbegall@rei.com
REI Bloomington
494 & Lyndale 952/884-4315
REI Roseville
Cty B2 & Prior 651/635-0211
Shop on-line and sign up for REI's Gear Mail e-mail newsletter at http://www.rei.com (http://www.rei.com/)
ADVENTURE RACING
ADVENTURE RACING 101
Wednesday, May 12th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Wednesday, May 26th at 7 PM
REI Roseville
You've seen the race footage on TV, but what does it really take to be an adventure racer? Join veteran racer Dan Williams as he discusses what it takes to get started, how to get connected with other racers, and information about local races and events. As a member of Team Northstar from the Eco Challenge New Zealand and Team Iron Range from the Eco Challenge Borneo, Dan has tons of knowledge and experience and that can help make your dream of adventure racing a reality.
ORIENTEERING FOR ADVENTURE RACERS
Thursday, May 13th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Gain a competitive edge for this season's races. Strong orienteering skills are a must when competing in an adventure race. Join members of the Minnesota Orienteering Club as they cover the map and compass necessities for the adventure racer. Navigation principles, route selection, and UTM grid maps are a few of the topics that will be addressed.
CYCLING
BASIC BIKE MAINTENANCE
Thursday, May 6th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Every rider should know a few things about keeping their bike running smoothly and this is your chance to learn. REI staff will cover changing a flat tire, maintaining a healthy chain, making simple brake adjustments, and identifying trouble spots that might require a mechanic. Learning happens best when it is done hands on. Please bring your front wheel to hone your tire changing skills. Whether you ride on-road, off-road, race, or just race around the neighborhood, this clinic will help keep your bike going.
CAMPING/HIKING
BACKPACKING ISLE ROYALE
Monday, May 24th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
REI's Tony Wagner will present slides and information on backpacking Lake Superior's Isle Royale National Park. Just miles off Minnesota's North Shore, the park is considered one of the Upper Midwest's premier backpacking destinations. Tony will share insights on route selection, ferry services and island wildlife.
INTRO TO GPS
Tuesday, May 4th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Wednesday, May 5th at 7 PM
REI Roseville
Our most popular clinic! Anyone who spends time in the outdoors should understand this powerful handheld navigation system. REI expert staff will give this informative clinic on the basics of choosing and using the GPS technology to aid you in your outdoor adventures. The clinic will also cover GPS compatible mapping software.
GPS NAVIGATION FIELD DAY
Saturday, May 8th from 9 AM to 2 PM
REI Bloomington and Lake Jensen, Lebanon Hills Regional Park, Eagan
Great hands-on, in-the-field opportunity to improve your navigation skills hosted by REI and National Geographic Maps. Learn how to use your GPS unit in conjunction with maps and mapping software. The program is intended to teach useful skills for hikers, mountain bikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Attendance at Intro to GPS (see description above) is required. Participants must bring their own GPS unit.
Pre-register (required) by calling REI Bloomington at 952/ 884-4315 x9.
Fee: $15 for REI members
$20 for non-members
BACKPACKING BASICS
Wednesday, May 19th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Join an experienced REI backpacker for an informative session on selecting backpacking gear, choosing clothing, and general trip planning advice. The clinic will be full of great tips to get you on the trail. Recommendations on great places to go backpacking in Minnesota and around the extended region will also be given.
PADDLING
KAYAKING 101
Monday, May 3rd at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Local instructors from Paddlemasters will offer the information you need to start paddling this summer. They will tell you how to buy your first sea kayak, fit your PFD, and properly size a paddle. In addition, learn about local clubs and great kayaking places as well as where to find instruction to take those first steps.
INTRO TO SEA KAYAKING
Wednesday, May 12th at 7 PM
REI Roseville
Join Stellar Sager from the Superior Kayaking and Outdoor Adventure Club (SKOAC) for all the information and advice you need to get into sea kayaking. She will cover buying the right boat, fitting a PFD, and talk about accessories to keep you safe and comfortable. In addition, she will address some great places to go as well opportunities for local lessons.
REI's PADDLEFEST AND ON-THE-WATER BOAT DEMO Saturday, May 15th from 11 AM to 3 PM Schulze Lake, Lebanon Hills Regional Park, Eagan Co-sponsored by Dakota County Parks
This is our biggest boat demo of the season! All of the information you need to get paddling this summer is at Paddlefest. Join REI staff on the water to test paddle a variety of great canoes and kayaks. See how design and materials affect performance and decide which boat best meets your needs. Talk with members of local paddling clubs and register to win a new PFD. All participants will receive a coupon for 15% off of the purchase of a new boat.
GREENLAND STYLE PADDLING TECHNIQUES
Monday, May 17th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Join the Inland Sea Kayakers for their monthly program meeting. This month they will present traditional Greenland-style paddling techniques. For thousands of years these skills, combined with specialized hand-made craft and equipment, allowed hunters in the Arctic to paddle in some of the harshest conditions imaginable. Come learn about some of the paddling, bracing, and rolling techniques. You can also see traditional skin-on-frame boats, paddles, and other equipment and learn how you can make them yourself.
BOUNDARY WATERS 101
Tuesday, May 18th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Wednesday, May 19th at 7 PM
REI Roseville
A jam-packed session on planning and preparing your own Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) adventure with trip tested ideas and suggestions from an experienced REI staff member. Topics will include an overview of the BWCAW, information on permits, equipment, clothing, food and more. Trip Planning sessions 102 and 103 are not required to attend this session.
BOUNDARY WATERS 102
Tuesday, May 25th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
This is a continuation of the basic 101 program on planning Boundary Water's trip. This session provides specific information and examples on how to stow your gear in your pack, distribute your equipment in the canoe, portage efficiently, navigate with Fisher and Mackenzie maps, address safety issues, and hang your food at your campsite. Lastly, the class will emphasize the importance of minimum impact camping. Trip planning sessions 101 and 103 are not required to attend this session.
BOUNDARY WATERS 103
Saturday, June 5th from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM Lake Jensen, Lebanon Hills Regional Park, Eagan
Start your canoe trip close to home. This on-water workshop will introduce you to paddling and portaging a canoe on a small chain of lakes in Lebanon Hills Regional Park. After this workshop, you'll have the basic skills needed to do your own Boundary Waters trip. Perfect for beginners. Bring all your own equipment or call to reserve rental equipment. Bring your own lunch, water, and an extra set of warm, dry clothes. Trip Planning sessions 101 and 102 are not required to attend this session.
Registration required. Call Dakota County Parks at 651/438-4737.
Fee: $20/adult and $5/youth (15 & under)
TRAVEL
ADVENTURES IN COSTA RICA
Monday, May 10th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Costa Rica is rich with culture and beautiful lands. Join Wilderness Inquiry for a slideshow and presentation on this intriguing destination. Whether you are looking for a trip, planning your own, or just dreaming of beautiful beaches and deep green jungles, this is a presentation not to be missed.
UPCOMING SALES
REI ANNIVERSARY SALE RUNS MAY 21ST THROUGH THE 31ST.
Great prices on gear and clothing in all departments
Shop 3 ways - visit REI Bloomington or REI Roseville, click http://www.rei.com (http://www.rei.com/) or call 800/426-4840
COMING IN JUNE
NATIONAL TRAIL'S DAY WITH REI AND THE MINNESOTA OFF-ROAD CYCLISTS Saturday, June 5th from 9 AM to 1 PM Metro Location TBA
REI is partnering with the Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists to host a trail-maintenance project in a local park. Here is your chance to pitch in to keep our trail resources in great shape. The project will include a number of tasks to help reroute existing trails and build new trails in the park. REI will provide lunch and a trail volunteer T-shirt; you provide a much needed helping hand. To pre-register (required for lunch count) or for more information contact Don Begalle at 952/884-4315 x203 or email dbegall@rei.com.
WILD ADVENTURE SUMMER SPRINT (MARS RACE #1) Saturday, June 12th at 9 AM Lebanon Hills Regional Park, Eagan
This 2-4 hour race is a great opportunity to sample adventure racing and enter the Minnesota Adventure Race Series. Join other like-minded adventurous teams for a race that will include paddling, mountain biking, orienteering, ropes, and trekking. Find out what all the fuss is about. Visit www.marseries.com (http://www.morcmtb.org/forums/www.marseries.com) for details and registration information.
CLASSES
CLIMBING CLASSES
1st & 3rd Wednesdays of the Month at 6 PM (May 5th or 19th) REI Bloomington Pinnacle
An introductory climbing class taught by a certified Vertical Endeavors instructor. Participants will learn about equipment, knot tying, belay technique, rope work, climbing commands, and safety issues.
The course is $20 for REI members, $30 for non-member and includes the use of climbing shoe and harness. Classes are offered from 6 PM - 9 PM. All students must be at least 14 years of age. Advanced registration and payment is required.
Call 952/ 884-431 5 x 9 to register.
WOMEN ONLY CLIMBING CLASSES
2nd Wednesday of the month at 6 PM (May 12th) REI Bloomington Pinnacle
A Women's only version of our introductory climbing class taught by a certified Vertical Endeavors instructor.
The course is $20 for REI members, $30 for non-member. Students must be at least 14 years of age. Advanced registration and payment is required. Call 952/ 884-4315 x9 to register.
The course is $20 for REI members, $30 for non-member.
FAMILY CLIMBING CLASSES
4th Wednesday of the month at 6 PM (May 26th) REI Bloomington Pinnacle
The Family version of our introductory climbing class. Family classes are open to children under 14 who meet the height requirement and are accompanied in the climbing class by a parent. Advanced registration and payment is required. Call 952/ 884-4315 x9 to register.
The course is $20 for REI members, $30 for non-member.
To remove your name from this list, please reply to dbegall@rei.com and your address will no longer receive these updates.
REI
750 West American Boulevard
Bloomington, MN 55420
Don Begalle
Special Events, Twin Cities REI
952/884-4315 ext. 203
dbegall@rei.com