In 2012 the section enjoyed a record number of local AAC events, from informal climbing-video nights and first-aid and climbing safety classes to full-on banquets. Let it be said at the outset that all of these events were possible only through the commitment of many AAC volunteers and local business partners. Our thanks to all!

Responding to a disturbing incidence of climbing accidents in the southern Appalachian region, most recently the death of a 19-year-old climber while rappelling at a crag in North Carolina, the section committed to the development and ongoing delivery of free public clinics designed to promote safer rappelling practices. This project was led by Danny McCracken and Aram Attarian, and the first clinic was held in November. Led by Patrick Weaver, Danny, and Aram, the clinics are taught by AMGA-certified instructors from the Appalachian Mountain Institute of Pisgah Forest, North Carolina. By January 2013, seven sold-out clinics had been delivered across North Carolina, with over 80 participants attending. More clinics and venues are in the pipeline, with the goal of reaching 200 climbers by year-end 2013.

In March and November, Danny McCracken taught Wilderness First Aid classes featuring significant customization to focus on climbing accident scenarios. Class pricing was designed to incentivize participants to join the AAC rather than pay higher tuition. In July, at a backyard barbecue in Raleigh, the section welcomed Lisa Hummel, the new Regional Coordinator for the Southeast. Forty members, guests, and local AAC partners enjoyed a slide presentation by John Bragg, AAC Director of Community Programs. Love the Lycra, John!

The entertainment highlight of the year was the visit of prominent alpinists Janet Bergman and Freddie Wilkinson for three AAC events in October. Janet and Freddie presented “Karakoram Frontiers: A Season of First Ascents” to enthusiastic audiences in Raleigh and Winston-Salem. Janet also hosted a well-received event for AAC women. Our thanks to Mountain Hardwear, Great Outdoor Provision Co., and the Triangle Rock Club for supporting their visit.

The 8th Annual Eastern North Carolina AAC Get Together was held December 8 at the home of the section chair in Raleigh. The featured speakers were Roger Putnam, recipient of a 2012 AAC Research Grant, who presented his work on mapping the geology of El Capitan, and Jeff Witt, visiting Exum guide, who presented a tutorial on the climbing routes of Aconcagua.