SUMMER 2009

As things cool off here in Boise we starting thinking about warmer weather…more specifically our plans for the Summer of 2009. We have set the dates for our western trip, F.L.O.W. (Future Leaders on Whitewater) 2009: June 19-July 8, 2009. This trip will be one day longer than the similar trip we ran last summer, W.I.L.D. Idaho 2008, in partnership with Boise State University.

This summers trip will including paddling on some of the best whitewater anywhere in the continental United States. For all of you eastern paddlers out there- think big, DEEP rivers with giant roller coaster waves. To get a feel of what the trip is like check out the photos and blog from last years trip, W.I.L.D. Idaho 2008. All students will pass through our “Ten Elements of Leadership” Curriculum, participate in meaningful service opportunities, have the opportunity to become a certified Leave No Trace Trainer, opportunity to become an American Canoe Association Whitewater Kayak Instructor, and possibly earn COLLEGE academic credit. Think about it- paddling, leadership training, potential to earn certifications and academic credit– all while exploring beautiful countryside with a like minded group of teens. If you are looking for that special something that makes you jump out on a college application while having a blast, F.L.O.W. 2009 is the trip for you. Go ahead and sign up already! You can fill out an application to all of our programs online, it only takes a few minutes.

We are anxiously anticipating our trip to Mexico and can’t wait for December to get here. Katie Hawkins will be making a guest appearance for a portion of the trip, and Pebbles- our awesome golden retriever, will be there to greet us ate every take out. I am looking forward to warm weather, fantastic paddling, the amazing people of Jalcomulco, and time with some of my favorite Green Cove ladies!

Over Thanksgiving, I- Kristin Bierle, will be attending a slalom training camp with the infamous Cathy Hearn to learn more about C-1. I am hoping that some of my kayak knowledge will transfer over into the canoe…we will see. It could be a cold, wet, training camp- but regardless I know I will learn tons and come away a better paddler. I will let you know how it goes.

If you are reading this and it is cold and rainy outside, start thinking about your plans for the summer. Feel free to call or e-mail us if you would like more information about the trip. Many of you should expect a brochure about F.L.O.W. 2009 in the mail over Thanksgiving break. If you are not on our mailing list, or just want to make sure you get a brochure,please send us your information to info@alzar.org

Kristin Bierle