In 2013 we held 31 events, ranging from climbing video nights and first-aid classes to full-on banquets. The commitment of numerous volunteers and local business partners made this record year possible. Last year the section responded to the rappelling death of a local climber by committing to the development of free public clinics to promote safer rappelling. The resulting Rappelling Best Practices Clinics absorbed the bulk of the section’s energy in 2013. Fourteen clinics were hosted by excellent partners across North Carolina, and additional clinics took place at Stone Summit Climbing and Fitness Center in Atlanta. In all, 172 climbers attended the clinics. Our heartfelt thanks goes out to all who provided financial support, instructional time, venues, and promotional assistance. Special thanks to our developers and instructors— Aram Attarian, Danny McCracken, and Patrick Weaver—and to partners Appalachian Mountain Institute (AMI), REI, and Rescue Dynamics.

I would also like to offer huge thanks for the help I have received over the eight years of my tenure as section chair. Starting on January 1, 2014, Danny McCracken took on the challenges and pleasures of leading the section. Lead on, Danny!