News and Information


Division Director for Eastern Division

The Eastern Division is looking for a dynamic, committed, energetic patroller to fill the position of Eastern Division Director. More details about eligibility, qualifications, and the process are in this document. Persons interested in being candidates for this position are asked to submit their names to the Eastern Division Nomination and Election Chair. For more information, contact Don Weaver.

Don Weaver
253 Braxmar Road
Tonawanda New York 14150
Home 716-837-1039
Cell 716-479-1167
dweaverb2@juno.com

New WMR Student Advisor

Laura Tucker of Butternut has volunteered to replace Dave Childs as WMR Student Advisor. Laura is more than qualified to this position and the region is fortunate to have her step up.

Laura actually began in this role in the middle of last season by accompanying one of our Young Adult Patrollers (YAP), Erika Halvorsen to the YAP clinic at Bretton Woods. This season Laura has a goal to try and develop a stronger program with more areas involved. More will be coming out on the plans as the next season approaches.

The goal of the program has always been to make the young adults excited about the NSP and their participation. The hope is that as these young adults grow they will stay with the patrol and if they do move away, that they will become involved with NSP at new location. The Eastern Division puts a lot of energy in this program. Parents are encouraged to contact Laura about this program.

Eastern Division (ED) Treasurer

At the last SOM Edward Alexander had been voted in as the ED Treasurer. Ed's home mountain is Whiteface. Ed replaced Jeff Barcus, Bousquet, as the treasurer this year. I believe Jeff spent 6 years as ED treasurer and was instrumental in the introduction of new financial accountability in the Eastern Division. A very big deal. Jeff was awarded the Meritorious Service Award for his hard work during his tenure.

Butternut Takes WMR Trophy

WinnerFather and daughter team mates, Bob and Sarah Labrie accept the Frank Munn Trophy for Butternut. Photo: Pierre Catellier

WMR RD Bryan Sinclair writes -- The Western Mass Region Patrol Competition was hosted by Otis Ski Area. (In spite of rumors of their demise, they are alive and well ... and will be open next year.) The Butternut ski patrol was successful in taking the trophy from Blandford. Congratulations to them. The region was well represented with teams from Berkshire East, Bradford, Bousquet, Butternut and Jiminy Peak. In fact, Blandford fielded two teams -- the Seniors and the Yutes. We all had a great time and the competition was all in fun.

I would like to thank the Larry Gould and his patrollers for their involvement and making this event happen. You did a wonderful job. It was great to meet the "Otis" family patrollers. You guys do need to get Janna a new whistle and I hope somebody bought her a beer. I would also like thank Dave Sacchitella for his help in coordination for the region.

Next year the competition will be held at Berkshire East. Mark your calendar for the first Sunday in March. Be there I had a great time, I'm sure you will too.

Wanted: IOR for Region OEC Course

In the very near future some changes are taking place in the OEC Staff for the WMASS Region. David Benoit will be stepping down as Region OEC Administrator and is taking on added duties at Jiminy Peak as Pro Patrol Director. I will become the OEC Administrator replacing David on January 1st and Karen Mills who is the IOR for the WMASS OEC Course will become the Assistant OEC Administrator. With these changes taking place I want to assure you that we will do our best to provide services into the season's ahead.

With Karen Mills taking on the new position she will be relinquishing her duties as IOR for the Region OEC Class, we are searching for a replacement from the Region. I have attached a document with the requirements we would like this candidate to have. I know there are a number of people out there who are very qualified to take on this task. I will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. I will keep you informed of the status of this search and would also like to contact patrollers who express an interest in becoming the IOR so that we obtain the most qualified person so we all benefit from this.

Paul Descoteau, Asst. OEC Administrator

WMR Logo Merchandise

Interested in proudly wearing the WMR logo on a hat, vest or shirt? Well you can. Assistant RD, Chris Cruz, had made arrangements with a local embroidery firm to make this possible. Prices are reasonable and they will provide the clothing, or embroider most anything you provide. Contact Chris for more information.

Thunderbolt Ski Race

The 75th Anniversary Thunderbolt Ski race is currently scheduled for February 20, 2010. It will be a time trial and will include ski, snowboard, telemark and vintage categories. This event is open to competitors of all abilities. Please check this page for further information regarding the race and registration.

UPDATE: Dave Childs is the WMR point-of-contact for the Thunderbolt ski race. Contact Dave if you would like to assist in supporting the race.


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