Spring Creek Cleanup

April 10, 2010
Organized by: Nick Clabbers


The annual spring creek cleanup was held on April 10 this year. Although there was no picnic and lime-green shirts this year, the same fun was still had. Every year PSOC flies down spring creek from TMO to Milesburg, picking trash from the banks and making everything cleaner overall. This year was a little chilly, starting temps were low 40s, but the bright sun warmed up the intrepid cleaners with great zeal. Great fun was had by all the participants, even those who went for a swim. One might even say they had the most fun, one might indeed. As per the usual strange things were recovered from the creek. The most notable items being a trike, stereo, several tires, and battery that unfortunately fell out of a canoe and now resides somewhere in the creek. This year's haul overall was less than last year's, meaning the creek may be getting cleaner. No one died, watch out for meth labs.


Members in Attendance:
Nick Clabbers 
Dan Trew
Frannie Root 
Steve Meckler 
Joe Sumereau 
Christina Ferry 
Kristin Garrity 
James Basham 
Sarah Luchner 
Greg Lilik 
Michelle Christensen 
Rachel Hoh 
Tyler Haas 
Mike Collins 
Kate Lalancette 
Becca Baker 
Julia Vadas

Red Moshannon Down River Race

March 28, 2010

In one of the few actual competitions PSOC participates in, a small contingent took part in the 43rd annual Red Mo Down River Race. The race is a 7.5 mile canoe and kayak race on Moshannon Creek. The group showed up early, and had a "good time." Overall there were about 200 competitors for the race, and only one bad accident towards the end of the race. It was fun, and no one died.

Members in Attendance:

Joe Sumereau 

Ben Winchester

Andrea Muller

Everglades (09-09)

November 20-28, 2009

Organized by: Kelly McFadden, Joe Moran

The first Thanksgiving Break trip to depart, this trip explored the wonders of the Everglades National Park. The trip had varying degrees of difficulty depending on the current. As would be expected the weather was warm (80 degrees) and sunny, however it being Florida the weather was also unpredictable at times (high winds and downpours). All the perishable food perished within the first 3 days and large dry-bags were required to keep water-sensitive equipment safe and dry. The trip went smoothly. Note: many notes to follow.

• Long-term weather forecasts are unreliable for Florida
• it is suggested that perishable food be purchased in Florida to minimize spoilage
• lots of bugs
• bare feet = cut feet
• sun = sun burn
• Campsites in Everglades National Park must be reserved in person at the visitor center less than 24 hours before arrival at camp

Members in Attendance:

Nick Clabbers
Adam Cota
Brian Kocher
Pamela Lin
Thaddeus Line
Kelly McFadden
Joe Moran
Ed Wilson-Ewing

ACA Canoe/Kayak Collegiate Championship (09-06)

October 9-11, 2009

Organized by: Brian Brosius

This was the second annual attendance of the Penn State Outing Club at the ACAC/KCC. PSOC placed 5th, and not out of 5. We received a certificate which is "on file" with The President. The trip was easy and requires no experience. The weather misbehaved and decided to be everywhere from 35-80 degrees with some sun and some rain. Overall the trip was a good time, no one died, everyone got along. Food of note: Apple Cinnamon Bagels with Hamburgers. Next year's race will be in Western North Carolina.

Members in Attendance:
Brian Brosius
Rohit Gandrakota
Darcy McKinley Lester
Stephen Meckler
Megan Murphy
Rich Schatz
Kurt Smithgall

Allegheny River (09-02)

September 11-13, 2009

Organized by: Mike Szedlmayer

The first water-born trip of the 2009 Fall semester was held on the Allegheny River from Kinzua Dam to Indian Waters Outfitters. The trip was reportedly very easy and appropriate for all levels of skill. The less-than-favorable weather at the stat caused a small delay, but the trip ended on a sunny note. There was adequate food, however the kayaks were mediocre (Indian Waters Outfitters is not recommended for a return trip). The water in the Allegheny was dirty and packing in water is recommended if possible. The group was a good mix of core members and new people that got along. A final note: Don't forget a spatula.

Members in Attendance:

Mike Szedlmayer
James Basham
Kelly McFadden
Roozbeh Foroozan
Eric Schmidt
Molly Burbank
David Semple
Emily Donner
Stephanie Vliet