Tue, Jan 20 2015 - Free Q&A Tutorial Session: Clothing & Gear 101 for Hikers and Backpackers (View Original Event Details) Trip Leader(s): Charlie Cottingham, Laura V Participants: Charlie Cottingham, Laura V, Joyce T., Mark, Sue M., Tory, Brad B, Deb R, Greg Walling, Tricia S., Barbara F, Julie B, Jane Z, Shawn Z, Aaron, Simo L, Heidi W., Thomas W.

We want to thank our gracious hosts at the East Cobb Eddie Bauer store for their hospitality at this enjoyable and educational tutorial exclusively for our members.  We covered many of the basics of hiking and backpacking, including how to select appropriate clothing layers and footwear that will keep us warm, dry and comfortable in any conditions - also tips about choosing packs, tents, sleeping bags, trekking poles, hydration systems, etc. that are appropriate for various styles of hiking, backpacking and camping.  The friendly and knowledgable staff gave us each a nice package of informative handouts and treated us to delicious hot pizza and refreshments - also did a special door prize drawing for a $50 Eddie Bauer gift certificate.  Congrats to Brad for being our "big winner!"
  Everyone seemed to agree that this special AOC event was a resounding success and that there indeed was "no pressure to buy."  We hope to be able to arrange more similar in-store learning experiences for our members in the near future.
  -Submitted by Charlie, Tue Jan 20 at 9:45 PM