Once every month, AAC members in Portland gathered at a local brewery for Pub Club, an informal social gathering that provides members with access to an amazing network of local climbers and instant camaraderie, based on a shared passion for climbing and the AAC. In May we hosted our annual dinner at the historic Timberline Lodge. Scott Johnston, co-author of Training for the New Alpinism, was our keynote speaker and shared some very helpful training tips. The silent auction and raffle helped raise money for the local Live Your Dream grants.

At mid-year Jesse Bernier came on board as section co-chair, joining existing co-chair Heidi Medema. Jesse is based out of Bend, where we hope to grow the club’s presence. Once the weather cooled, we headed to Smith Rock, where, with the support of our friends from CAMP, we hosted the third annual Craggin’ Classic, with clinics, food, film, and more. We capped the weekend with a successful service project, helping to repair a washed-out section of trail in the popular state park. In December, AAC members and Live Your Dream grant winners Ally and Jon Skeen opened a special evening with Ueli Steck with a quick talk about their AAC- supported adventure. Then the Swiss Machine gave a very inspiring presentation of his mountaineering feats to a sold-out house.