gopherhockey
03-25-2003, 12:36 PM
April Events
Welcome to the REI Events Update. We are finishing off our Adventure Racing kick-off with an appearance by members of Team REI/Salomon. This is a great opportunity to meet racers and learn how to get into adventure racing. We are also pulling out all of our popular summer clinics including BWCA Trip Planning, Backpacking 101, paddling clinics and demos, and our GPS series. If that is not enough, master boot-fitter Phil Oren will be here to solve your boot-fitting problems. Don't forget our Spring Sale. Running April 4th through April 13th, you will find good deals on the gear you need for your spring and summer adventures!
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
ADVENTURE RACING CLINICS
MEET TEAM REI-SALOMON ADVENTURE RACERS
Wednesday, April 2nd at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Meet Team REI-Salomon Adventure Racers Barry Siff and Liz Caldwell as they share their Eco-Challenge and the Discovery Challenge World Cup Adventures. See images from their Tibet, and Borneo races as they give an overview of the sport. Learn how to train and get advice on finding team members and gear essentials.
PADDLING
BOUNDARY WATERS TRIP PLANNING
Thursday, April 10th at 7 PM
REI Roseville
Wednesday, April 16th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
A jam-packed session on planning and preparing your own 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! The program will be especially helpful for the inexperienced Boundary Waters traveler.
KAYAK 101
Tuesday, April 15th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Join local instructors from Paddlemasters for all of 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.
MAKE ROOM IN YOUR KAYAK-TRY DEHYDRATION
Monday, April 21st at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
After many kayak camping trips, the Inland Sea Kayakers have learned how to bring the great food of the kitchen into the campsite. Dehydrating foods is a great way to get delicious nutritious meals that are lightweight, compact, and long-lasting. Dehydrating is a traditional means of preserving foods for extended periods of time -- perfect for when you have limited space and a healthy appetite! So join us for an informative (and tasty) presentation.
INTRO TO KAYAK NAVIGATION
Wednesday, April 23rd at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Finding your way with a map and compass is an essential skill for those planning on touring Lake Superior or other open water destinations. Join the Superior Kayak and Outdoor Adventure club as we demystify the art and science of navigation. Experienced paddlers and sea kayak instructors Ellen Nacik and Sarah Ohmann will cover different maps and how to read them, using hand-held and deck-mounted compasses, practical tips for paddling in fog and making island crossings, and an introduction to nautical charts.
ON THE WATER CANOE & KAYAK DEMOS
Saturday, April 26th from 10 AM to 1 PM
Lake Nokomis in Minneapolis
Co-sponsored by the Minneapolis Parks & Rec Board
Saturday, May 10 from 10 AM to 1 PM
Snail Lake in Shoreview
Co-sponsored by Ramsey County Parks
Join REI staff on the water to test paddle a variety of canoes and kayaks from Old Town, Mad River, Dagger, Perception, Prijon, and Ocean Kayak. Test how design and materials affect performance and decide which boat meets your needs best.
CYCLING
CYCLING TASMANIA
Tuesday, April 15th at 7 PM
REI Roseville
REI member Andy Cotter will offer slides and discussion on his recent cycling trip to the island of Tasmania. But this was not just any cycling trip. Most of the riders in the group completed the majority of the more than 700 miles on unicycles. Come learn about this unique trip and what it took to pull it off.
FIXING A FLAT TIRE
Tuesday, April 22nd at 7 PM
REI Roseville
It may seem like the most basic of cycling skills, but if you do not know how to get a new tube back into that flat tire, you might be in for a long walk. Whether you are hitting the road for a Saturday afternoon spin or heading out on a longer tour, attend this how-to clinic as a great insurance policy.
CAMPING/HIKING
BACKPACKING 101
Wednesday, April 9th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Thursday, April 17th at 7 PM
REI Roseville
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.
INTRO TO BIRD WATCHING
Thursday, April 24th at 7 PM
REI Roseville
Bird-watching is one of the fastest growing outdoor activities in the country. With limited equipment and a desire to learn, you can be on your way to a healthy and new way to enjoy the outdoors. REI employee and well-traveled birder Jay Hamernick will show you what you need and where you can go to get started.
INTRO TO GPS
Wednesday, April 30th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Thursday, May 1st at 7 PM
REI Roseville
Our introductory clinic on Global Positioning Systems is back by popular demand. An experienced REI employee will give this informative clinic on the basics of using the GPS technology to aid you in your outdoors adventures. The clinic will also cover GPS compatible mapping software.
GPS NAVIGATION DAY
Saturday, May 3rd from 9 AM-2 PM
Cost: $15 members; $20 non-members
Lebanon Hills Regional Park, Jensen Lake Trailhead, in 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. Call 952/884-4315 ext. 9 to register or for more information.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
THE ART OF SEEING PHOTOGRAPHICALLY
Saturday, April 12th from 9 AM to 4 PM
REI Bloomington
Cost: $85 (advance) $95 (on day)
Includes lunch
Call (218) 834-0756 or 1-800-963-8785 to register.
Regardless of where you are in the natural world - in the field, your backyard garden or traveling on vacation, you will discover new ways to create stunning images. This intensive one-day seminar is a great way to take your photography to the next level, regardless of your skill level. This workshop by John Gregor of Cold Snap Photography incorporates lectures, slide shows, equipment demonstrations and question & answer sessions.
MINNESOTA ROVERS SPRING INTRO
Tuesday, April 22nd at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Want To Play Outside? The Minnesota Rovers Outing Club is a diverse group of people drawn together by a common appreciation for the outdoors. The Rovers hike, bike, canoe, climb, snowshoe, camp, sightsee, and take an active role in the preservation of the wilderness with which Minnesota is so well endowed. This informational meeting and slideshow can answer all of your questions. See you there!
GET FIT! BOOT CLINIC WITH PHIL OREN
REI Bloomington
Avid hikers and backpackers know all too well that your boots' fit can mean the difference between a fantastic hike and utter misery. Do you know how to guarantee that oh-so-elusive fit? Put your feet in the hands of Phil Oren. Phil is the outdoor industry's most acclaimed boot fitter and educator. Join us and find out how to ensure a proper boot fit.
Day 1 Friday, April 25th at 7 PM
Free & open to all
Introduction to the FitSystem Team
Evening Seminar to include:
* Unsung sock and moisture control
* Basic foot biomechanics
* Foot measurement
* Footbeds and importance of incline board
* Boot construction and modification
Question and answer with door prizes follow clinic
Day 2 Saturday, April 26th from 9 AM to 4:15 PM
Cost: $35
Pre-Registration is required. Please call (952) 884-4315 ext.219.
Custom Boot Fittings by the FitSystem Team
Register at the Bloomington Customer Service desk or by calling 952/884-4315 x219
* Information Packets
* Sponsor "goodie bags"
* Sock recommendations
* Feet measured sitting and standing
Evaluate need to stabilize
Evaluate need for custom
footbeds
Written personal foot evaluation
Modify footwear where needed
COMING IN MAY
BACKPACKING ISLE ROYALE NATIONAL PARK
Monday, May 5th 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.
KAYAKING THE APOSTLE ISLANDS
Wednesday, May 7th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Thursday, May 8th at 7 PM
REI Roseville
Join REI employee and experienced Lake Superior paddler Kyle Terrio-Johnson for the information you need to get paddling in Lake Superior's Apostle Islands. Kyle will offer a slideshow of this northern Wisconsin National Lakeshore and detail the gear, clothing, and planning required for a tour. The cold waters of Superior offer challenges to the novice and advanced paddler alike and Kyle will give you the knowledge to get you on your way.
SALES AND EVENTS
REI's Spring Sale runs April 4th through April 13th.
Shop 3 ways - visit REI Bloomington or REI Roseville, click http://www.rei.com or call 800/426-4840
CLASSES
CLIMBING CLASSES
1st & 3rd Wednesdays of the Month at 6 PM (April 2nd or 16th)
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/ 884-4315 to register.
WOMEN ONLY CLIMBING CLASSES
2nd Wednesday of the month at 6 PM (April 9th)
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 x219 to register.
FAMILY CLIMBING CLASSES
4th Wednesday of the month at 6 PM (April 23rd)
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.
The course is $20 for REI members, $30 for non-member.
Welcome to the REI Events Update. We are finishing off our Adventure Racing kick-off with an appearance by members of Team REI/Salomon. This is a great opportunity to meet racers and learn how to get into adventure racing. We are also pulling out all of our popular summer clinics including BWCA Trip Planning, Backpacking 101, paddling clinics and demos, and our GPS series. If that is not enough, master boot-fitter Phil Oren will be here to solve your boot-fitting problems. Don't forget our Spring Sale. Running April 4th through April 13th, you will find good deals on the gear you need for your spring and summer adventures!
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
ADVENTURE RACING CLINICS
MEET TEAM REI-SALOMON ADVENTURE RACERS
Wednesday, April 2nd at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Meet Team REI-Salomon Adventure Racers Barry Siff and Liz Caldwell as they share their Eco-Challenge and the Discovery Challenge World Cup Adventures. See images from their Tibet, and Borneo races as they give an overview of the sport. Learn how to train and get advice on finding team members and gear essentials.
PADDLING
BOUNDARY WATERS TRIP PLANNING
Thursday, April 10th at 7 PM
REI Roseville
Wednesday, April 16th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
A jam-packed session on planning and preparing your own 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! The program will be especially helpful for the inexperienced Boundary Waters traveler.
KAYAK 101
Tuesday, April 15th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Join local instructors from Paddlemasters for all of 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.
MAKE ROOM IN YOUR KAYAK-TRY DEHYDRATION
Monday, April 21st at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
After many kayak camping trips, the Inland Sea Kayakers have learned how to bring the great food of the kitchen into the campsite. Dehydrating foods is a great way to get delicious nutritious meals that are lightweight, compact, and long-lasting. Dehydrating is a traditional means of preserving foods for extended periods of time -- perfect for when you have limited space and a healthy appetite! So join us for an informative (and tasty) presentation.
INTRO TO KAYAK NAVIGATION
Wednesday, April 23rd at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Finding your way with a map and compass is an essential skill for those planning on touring Lake Superior or other open water destinations. Join the Superior Kayak and Outdoor Adventure club as we demystify the art and science of navigation. Experienced paddlers and sea kayak instructors Ellen Nacik and Sarah Ohmann will cover different maps and how to read them, using hand-held and deck-mounted compasses, practical tips for paddling in fog and making island crossings, and an introduction to nautical charts.
ON THE WATER CANOE & KAYAK DEMOS
Saturday, April 26th from 10 AM to 1 PM
Lake Nokomis in Minneapolis
Co-sponsored by the Minneapolis Parks & Rec Board
Saturday, May 10 from 10 AM to 1 PM
Snail Lake in Shoreview
Co-sponsored by Ramsey County Parks
Join REI staff on the water to test paddle a variety of canoes and kayaks from Old Town, Mad River, Dagger, Perception, Prijon, and Ocean Kayak. Test how design and materials affect performance and decide which boat meets your needs best.
CYCLING
CYCLING TASMANIA
Tuesday, April 15th at 7 PM
REI Roseville
REI member Andy Cotter will offer slides and discussion on his recent cycling trip to the island of Tasmania. But this was not just any cycling trip. Most of the riders in the group completed the majority of the more than 700 miles on unicycles. Come learn about this unique trip and what it took to pull it off.
FIXING A FLAT TIRE
Tuesday, April 22nd at 7 PM
REI Roseville
It may seem like the most basic of cycling skills, but if you do not know how to get a new tube back into that flat tire, you might be in for a long walk. Whether you are hitting the road for a Saturday afternoon spin or heading out on a longer tour, attend this how-to clinic as a great insurance policy.
CAMPING/HIKING
BACKPACKING 101
Wednesday, April 9th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Thursday, April 17th at 7 PM
REI Roseville
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.
INTRO TO BIRD WATCHING
Thursday, April 24th at 7 PM
REI Roseville
Bird-watching is one of the fastest growing outdoor activities in the country. With limited equipment and a desire to learn, you can be on your way to a healthy and new way to enjoy the outdoors. REI employee and well-traveled birder Jay Hamernick will show you what you need and where you can go to get started.
INTRO TO GPS
Wednesday, April 30th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Thursday, May 1st at 7 PM
REI Roseville
Our introductory clinic on Global Positioning Systems is back by popular demand. An experienced REI employee will give this informative clinic on the basics of using the GPS technology to aid you in your outdoors adventures. The clinic will also cover GPS compatible mapping software.
GPS NAVIGATION DAY
Saturday, May 3rd from 9 AM-2 PM
Cost: $15 members; $20 non-members
Lebanon Hills Regional Park, Jensen Lake Trailhead, in 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. Call 952/884-4315 ext. 9 to register or for more information.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
THE ART OF SEEING PHOTOGRAPHICALLY
Saturday, April 12th from 9 AM to 4 PM
REI Bloomington
Cost: $85 (advance) $95 (on day)
Includes lunch
Call (218) 834-0756 or 1-800-963-8785 to register.
Regardless of where you are in the natural world - in the field, your backyard garden or traveling on vacation, you will discover new ways to create stunning images. This intensive one-day seminar is a great way to take your photography to the next level, regardless of your skill level. This workshop by John Gregor of Cold Snap Photography incorporates lectures, slide shows, equipment demonstrations and question & answer sessions.
MINNESOTA ROVERS SPRING INTRO
Tuesday, April 22nd at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Want To Play Outside? The Minnesota Rovers Outing Club is a diverse group of people drawn together by a common appreciation for the outdoors. The Rovers hike, bike, canoe, climb, snowshoe, camp, sightsee, and take an active role in the preservation of the wilderness with which Minnesota is so well endowed. This informational meeting and slideshow can answer all of your questions. See you there!
GET FIT! BOOT CLINIC WITH PHIL OREN
REI Bloomington
Avid hikers and backpackers know all too well that your boots' fit can mean the difference between a fantastic hike and utter misery. Do you know how to guarantee that oh-so-elusive fit? Put your feet in the hands of Phil Oren. Phil is the outdoor industry's most acclaimed boot fitter and educator. Join us and find out how to ensure a proper boot fit.
Day 1 Friday, April 25th at 7 PM
Free & open to all
Introduction to the FitSystem Team
Evening Seminar to include:
* Unsung sock and moisture control
* Basic foot biomechanics
* Foot measurement
* Footbeds and importance of incline board
* Boot construction and modification
Question and answer with door prizes follow clinic
Day 2 Saturday, April 26th from 9 AM to 4:15 PM
Cost: $35
Pre-Registration is required. Please call (952) 884-4315 ext.219.
Custom Boot Fittings by the FitSystem Team
Register at the Bloomington Customer Service desk or by calling 952/884-4315 x219
* Information Packets
* Sponsor "goodie bags"
* Sock recommendations
* Feet measured sitting and standing
Evaluate need to stabilize
Evaluate need for custom
footbeds
Written personal foot evaluation
Modify footwear where needed
COMING IN MAY
BACKPACKING ISLE ROYALE NATIONAL PARK
Monday, May 5th 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.
KAYAKING THE APOSTLE ISLANDS
Wednesday, May 7th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington
Thursday, May 8th at 7 PM
REI Roseville
Join REI employee and experienced Lake Superior paddler Kyle Terrio-Johnson for the information you need to get paddling in Lake Superior's Apostle Islands. Kyle will offer a slideshow of this northern Wisconsin National Lakeshore and detail the gear, clothing, and planning required for a tour. The cold waters of Superior offer challenges to the novice and advanced paddler alike and Kyle will give you the knowledge to get you on your way.
SALES AND EVENTS
REI's Spring Sale runs April 4th through April 13th.
Shop 3 ways - visit REI Bloomington or REI Roseville, click http://www.rei.com or call 800/426-4840
CLASSES
CLIMBING CLASSES
1st & 3rd Wednesdays of the Month at 6 PM (April 2nd or 16th)
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/ 884-4315 to register.
WOMEN ONLY CLIMBING CLASSES
2nd Wednesday of the month at 6 PM (April 9th)
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 x219 to register.
FAMILY CLIMBING CLASSES
4th Wednesday of the month at 6 PM (April 23rd)
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.
The course is $20 for REI members, $30 for non-member.