by Bill Zink, Certified Supervisor | Jun 5, 2025 | Division News, Program News
It’s that time of year again to plan your summer/fall patrol activities. Two of our favorites are back this year: Certified Boot Camp and Enhanced Patroller School. Both promise new adventures, team-building opportunities, and activities that will definitely stretch your skills and thought processes.
Last year’s Boot Camp events included fundamental first aid, mass casualty and triage skill development, new and creative approaches to lift evacuation skills, mountain operations, tower climbing dos and don’ts, outdoor risk management, avalanche fundamentals, and low-angle rescue. Our event was hosted at Holiday Mountain Ski Area in the Southern New York Region. It provided unique insights into what it takes to “open” an abandoned ski resort. Thanks to Mike Taylor, a fellow patroller and new owner of the resort, for being a gracious host and a brave entrepreneur.
Highlights from last year’s Boot Camp include:
• A Friday night lift evacuation exercise with all participants assigned a role in a simulated lift evac. The players included state and local officials, mountain management, resort operations manager, lift maintenance, and patrol. The scenario was presented to the participants through role-playing. All in attendance gained valuable experience in understanding the roles and responsibilities associated with lift evacuation. We all gained new appreciation for all the players involved in a lift evacuation.
• An ORM session led by certified patroller and mountain manager, Ted Davis, from Ski Windham, and
• A discussion of certified credentials held late on a hot day in the river, allowing for a refreshing discussion of the topic.
2025 Boot Camp
This year’s Certified Boot Camp will be hosted by Ski Roundtop, a Vail resort located just south of Harrisburg, PA. Activities will include a ropes course, camping by the lake, paintball opportunities, and unique insights into the operations of a Vail Resort, as well as:
• Your “normal” OEC, LE, LAR, and Avalanche activities.
• Friday night will include a visit from a local taco truck vendor.
• The usual chefs will be in the house, including Steve Suomala and Jimmy O’Connor, and their famous breakfast burritos.
• There will be a special visit from past certified chair and Elk Mountain patroller Billy Jordan. He will be catering the Saturday night potluck with his world-famous barbecue.
• If you want to make it a long weekend, Hershey Park is only 20 minutes away and is an awesome amusement park.
• Details for the Certified Boot Camp are:
̶ Ski Roundtop, Harrisburg, PA
̶ Visit patrollerschool.org for more detailed information and upcoming registration
̶ August 15-17
̶ Arrive Friday from 4-6
̶ Depart Sunday 2-3
by Alan Quimby, WNY Newlstter Editor | Jun 5, 2025 | Division News, Program News
Lift Evac PracticeThe Genesee Valley Region has set the date and location for its popular Enhanced Patroller School. It will be held September 12-14, 2025, at Swain Resort. This great summer training event allows patrollers to work on various patroller skills, including many aspects of the OEC program, chairlift evacuation techniques, low-angle rescue methods, and rescue knot tying. The weekend culminates with a simulated mass casualty incident on Sunday morning, bringing together all the skills reviewed during the previous two days. Many of the skills covered are part of the NSP Certified Patroller Program.
Last year’s event, also at Swain, was attended by 53 participants and 12 gurus whose task was to help guide the various stations. These patrollers came from 23 patrols, 12 regions, nine states, and had a combined total of over 800 years of patrolling experience. Additionally, several outside agencies also participated in the simulated mass casualty Incident on Sunday, including:
Thanks to our Helpers!
Allegany County Office of Emergency Management
Alfred Station Fire Company
Canaseraga Fire Company
Dansville Ambulance Company
Medical Transport Service, Inc.
Canaseraga Ambulance
Fillmore Ambulance
Nunda Ambulance
Allegany County DC 4
Jeff Baker and Tom Wallin have been organizing these training events since 2011. Jim Nickerson and Joe Menichino have been planning and working since the beginning. From year to year, they bring in additional patrollers from around the division to help act as guides and gurus because they have expertise in the different modules they are planning. This school has always been a low-pressure, hands-on, try stuff, get your hands dirty (or bloody), and ask questions type of event.
They have always wanted it accessible to patrollers of any level, including candidates, basic patrollers, senior candidates, and senior and certified patrollers. They want everyone to have fun, learn stuff, and take ideas back to their home patrols. With patrollers coming from around the division, as you sit around the fire pit talking at night, you get an interchange of ideas and techniques from many other patrollers.
Jeff Baker patrols at Bristol Mountain, Tom Wallin and Joe Menichino at Swain Resort, and Jim Nickerson is an alumnus patroller from Hunt Hollow Resort. To register for this event, go to NSP’s Center for Learning, browse the catalog, and search for Patroller Enrichment Seminar/Genesee Valley/Swain Resort.
The GURUS2024 Enhanced Patroller School Staff – from L-R; Jonathan Smith-Pittsford Ambulance, Glenn Becker-Bristol Patrol Director/Penfield Ambulance, Jeff Baker-Bristol Patrol/Pittsford Ambulance/Lifetime Certified, Jim Nickerson-Lifetime Certified, Joe Menichino-Swain & Bristol Patrol/Lifetime Certified, Jesse Merdak-Pittsford Ambulance, Tom Wallin-Swain Patrol/Lifetime Certified, Steve LaDue-Hunt Hollow Patrol/CHS Ambulance, Rob Armet-Windham Patrol/Lifetime Certified.
by Jason Tamulen, OEC Supervisor | Jun 5, 2025 | Division News, Program News
The Eastern Division of the National Ski Patrol is proud to announce the rollout of the Aid Room Module of the Senior Program (AR-MSP), a dynamic and critical component designed to elevate further the operational knowledge and leadership abilities of Senior Patroller candidates. As we launch this initiative, our first step is to identify passionate and qualified ski patrol members across the division who are ready to lead the charge within their respective regions.
The AR-MSP is not a repetition of the Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) module—it is a stand-alone educational and evaluative experience focusing specifically on the unique environment and challenges found within ski area aid rooms. This initiative aims to strengthen patroller capabilities in triage, medical intervention, communication, resource management, and leadership skills crucial to providing excellent care in high-pressure scenarios.
Why the AR-MSP Matters
Aid rooms are the operational nerve centers of ski patrol medical response. From managing multiple injured patients during peak hours to coordinating with EMS for critical transports, the complexity of tasks requires skill, efficiency, and calm leadership. The AR-MSP ensures that patrollers operating in these environments possess the specialized knowledge and leadership qualities necessary to handle such responsibilities.
The mission of the AR-MSP is simple: to provide Senior Patroller Candidates the opportunity to demonstrate advanced expertise in managing the aid room and delivering high-quality patient care. This includes not only clinical interventions but also coordination with emergency services, resolving conflicts with patients or visitors, and communicating effectively with area management and fellow patrollers.
What the Module Covers
The program is structured around five key topic areas:
Aid Room Triage and Resource Management
Candidates must demonstrate use of the ID-ME triage system, manage patient and non-patient incidents, deploy resources efficiently, and communicate effectively using radio or phone.
Medical Intervention and Treatment
Emphasis is placed on the primary and secondary surveys, infection control, and delivering appropriate care that aligns with both the standard of training and expected standard of care.
Conflict Resolution
Candidates are trained to manage tense or emotional situations with patients, family members, or colleagues through clear communication and calm demeanor.
Interaction with EMS and Other Agencies
Coordination with external emergency services is vital. Candidates must know when and how to transfer care, communicate infection risks, and manage legal responsibilities, including mandatory reporting.
Interface with Patrollers and Area Management
The module focuses on risk management, behavioral emergencies, and workplace injuries. Candidates must show they can operate as effective liaisons between the patrol, resort management, and external agencies.
The Training and Evaluation Process
The AR-MSP combines written exercises, discussions, scenario-based training, and final evaluations to ensure well-rounded development.
Written Exercises include:
—Aid room design and patient flow
—An assignment checklist covering essential protocols (e.g., missing person reports, ambulance requests, consent for minors)
—Responses to at least two scenarios, exploring real-world challenges
—Training Sessions are led by certified Trainers/Evaluators (T/Es), where candidates review their written assignments and practice scenarios.
Final Evaluation involves two hands-on scenarios designed to test candidate competence under pressure. Each scenario touches on multiple topic areas to simulate real-life situations in aid room settings.
Your Role in the Rollout
As we introduce the AR-MSP throughout the Eastern Division, our immediate goal is to identify enthusiastic and qualified ski patrol members to serve as regional program leaders. These individuals will work with Region OEC Administrators (ROAs) and Senior Training Coordinators (STCs) to:
—Coordinate training and evaluation events
—Support candidates as Trainers/Evaluators
—Promote awareness and participation in the program
If you have completed your OEC-MSP training and are ready to take on a leadership role in your region, we encourage you to step forward. The division will provide guidance, resources, and formal T/E training clinics to ensure that you are fully prepared to mentor candidates and uphold the high standards of the AR-MSP.
Looking Ahead
This program represents a significant step in the evolution of patroller education. By focusing on real-world aid room challenges, we prepare Senior Patrollers to be not just responders, but leaders—professionals who can think critically, act decisively, and communicate effectively during emergencies. The Aid Room Module reinforces what ski patrolling has always been about: readiness, leadership, and the commitment to serving others with excellence. With your support, we will build a stronger, more skilled patrol community across the Eastern Division. To express interest in becoming a regional AR-MSP leader or to learn more about how you or your patrol can get involved, please contact your Region OEC Administrator or Division OEC Supervisor. Together, let’s raise the bar for what it means to be a Senior Patroller in today’s ski environment. The future of our aid rooms—and the quality of care we provide—starts with us.
by Grant Fullman, Division Director | Apr 15, 2025 | Division News
“It was the best of times; it was the worst of times…” I didn’t want to start my report with a quote from Charles Dickens, but there’s much truth there.
I believe the ski season, now winding down, embodied “the best of times” in many ways. Good snow and snowmaking weather in many regions, and abundant natural snow in a few, including to the south. Our outstanding Eastern Division teams delivered programs as planned. These included six Patroller Schools with 335 participants and 77 instructors, 14 Women’s Clinics, over 75 Safety events, the Young Adult Patroller Summit at Smugglers’ Notch with 83 YAPs and 78 adult chaperones, and the annual Certified Weekend at Jay Peak. Hearty congrats to our four new Certified members.
In addition, our Safety team and Historian coordinated many special events to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the 10th Mountain Division’s assault on Riva Ridge. The division has over 20 new Instructor Development Instructors in process who will be key to future course delivery in all disciplines. And there was much more—too extensive for me to list here. Hopefully, you will see more program-specific articles in Trail Sweep in the months ahead.
I attended a face-to-face National Board and DD meeting in Denver in late January. Rich Pietrafesa was re-elected as National Chair for another year. I consider it great news for all of us. Rich has been a great voice of reason and stability, exactly what we need in these turbulent times. The National Board recently approved a policy to have an annual increase of National dues of 2.5% or the Consumer Price Index, whichever is greater. National dues will increase by 2.9% next year based on the CPI. Although no one wants a dues increase, this approach should help avoid big increases like in the past two years, while addressing the realities of an inflationary economy and the financial challenges faced by the NSP.
If you haven’t heard, March was a tough month for me. My wife and I had COVID in early March, and the timing kept me from attending the YAP Summit. A couple of weeks later, I had an on-duty/off-skis slip and fall while walking out of our mid-mountain patrol building. I wound up with a fractured ankle and fibula and had surgery on April 1 (no April fool here!). I am confined to our home in North Creek and can’t bear weight on my right leg. And no one can drive in our household, since it’s my right foot and my wife has low vision and can’t drive. So, I will be doing many things “virtually” until I regain some mobility! Here’s my private duty nurse, Miss Kitty, checking me out and making sure I’m comfortable.
Let’s celebrate our collective achievements this ski season – and there were many! And please be careful out there; bad things can happen in a heartbeat. Thanks for all you do!.
by Bill Zink, Certified Supervisor | Apr 15, 2025 | Division News, Program News
Peter, Becky, Vinny, RJ, and Certified Program Chair Bill Zink
The Eastern Division recently held our annual Certified exam and banquet at Jay Peak with over 118 participants lying in the snow as OEC patients and observing our eight candidates show their stuff in skiing, toboggan skills, lift evacuation, low-angle rescue, avalanche, and outdoor risk management. Of course, Jay Peak delivered an excellent venue, terrific skiing, and amazing and challenging terrain. Four of the eight candidates were successful. They include Vinny Romano #870, Becky Rubin #871, Peter Buss #872, and RJ Bouchard #873.
A heartfelt congratulations to all four of these candidates. Vinny, Becky, and Peter were in their third and final year to be successful. RJ was in his second year. These new Certified Patrollers represent the Eastern Division well. They hail from Western Pennsylvania, Western New York, Connecticut, and Vermont resorts. These new members are already in leadership positions across the division, and we look forward to seeing their contributions in the future.
The Certified Program is a performance-based leadership program that provides an opportunity for all patrollers to learn and be tested on critical patroller skills and knowledge. The program history dates back almost 60 years, when the national chair requested some East Coast patrollers develop a leadership program that would span both the volunteer and professional patroller organizations and skill sets.
Upcoming events include a summer boot camp in the EPA region in August. Specifically, Vail Resort Ski Roundtop in Harrisburg, PA, will host us from August 15-17. The Enhanced Patroller School will also be offered again at Swain Ski Resort in Genesee Valley Region on the weekend of September 12 – 14. Both events will challenge the instructors and participants in all their skills and offer great camaraderie and adventure. Next year’s exam will be at Sugarloaf, Maine, in March 2026.
Again, congratulations to our newest Certified Members!
by Jason Tamulen, OEC Supervisor | Apr 15, 2025 | Division News, Program News
National Ski Patrol’s YAP Summit Prepares the Next Generation of First Responders
The National Ski Patrol (NSP) Young Adult Patrol (YAP) Summit returned to Smugglers’ Notch, VT, from March 7–9, 2025, promising to be one of the most immersive and dynamic experiences yet. This year’s focus was real-world emergency care, with participants engaging in intense Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) scenarios designed to test their skills under high-pressure conditions.
The central theme of this year’s summit was a full-scale deck collapse simulation—a challenging scenario that required participants to assess and manage patients amid a chaotic and high-stakes environment. With over eight simulated patients suffering from various traumatic injuries, young adult patrollers had to think quickly, collaborate effectively, and rely on their training to triage and treat patients efficiently.
A Weekend of Learning, Competition, and Collaboration
The YAP Summit is not merely a training event; it’s an opportunity for young patrollers to showcase their skills in a competitive setting while honing their outdoor emergency care techniques. The weekend included both competitive and enhancement groups, each crafted to build expertise and confidence. The competition occurred on Saturday during two sessions for Groups A and B. On Sunday, the focus shifted to the enhancement groups, Group C and Group D. Young adult patrollers faced timed, high-intensity scenarios that demanded teamwork, quick thinking, and precise execution of OEC protocols.
Double backboards
With over 80 participants divided into four groups, evaluators assessed performance using a strict point-based scoring system. The addition of a scored Patient Assessment Station provided further challenges to demonstrate their expertise. Meanwhile, enhancement groups concentrated on skill refinement and patient care techniques, including pelvic and hip assessments, management of impalement injuries, bleeding control, airway management, and spinal motion restriction (SMR). Participants had access to specialized equipment such as airway mannequins, oxygen tanks, defibrillator trainers, and sled bags and backboards for trauma care.
A Unified Effort: Behind the Scenes of the YAP Summit
Behind this action-packed weekend was a dedicated team of evaluators and mentors, many of whom have been involved with the program for years and have greatly contributed to its success. Their role was to observe, score, and provide critical feedback, helping young patrollers improve their ski patrol response skills. Each scenario featured two evaluators to ensure fairness and consistency in scoring.
To keep things efficient, rotations were scheduled, and each scenario lasted a maximum of 20 minutes—a true test of time management and rapid assessment skills. Equipment also played a crucial role. On Friday night, YAP participants familiarized themselves with sled bags, backboards, and oxygen kits, ensuring they were comfortable using all available tools by the start of the scenarios.
It’s called TEAM BUILDING.
It’s About FUN!
One of the most exciting aspects of this year’s summit was the opportunity for young adult patrollers to collaborate in their groups on creative, interesting, and challenging scenarios. The YAP participants took the lead in designing unique emergencies, putting their advisors in the hot seat as they navigated the unpredictable scenarios created by the young patrollers. This role reversal added an element of fun and ingenuity to the event, fostering a deeper sense of tea
Why It Matters: Preparing the Next Generation of First Responders
Ski patrol involves more than just assisting injured skiers—it’s about being prepared for any situation. Events like the YAP Summit provide young adult patrollers with hands-on experience in simulated disasters, which enhances their ability to handle real-life emergencies with confidence and precision. By the end of the weekend, participants had not only tested their skills in a high-pressure environment but also built lasting connections with fellow young adult patrollers from across the country.
These experiences foster camaraderie, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to safety—qualities that define the best of the National Ski Patrol. Whether competing, enhancing their skills, or supporting their peers, every young adult patroller walked away with valuable lessons that will benefit them both on and off the slopes.
by Pietrafesa, NSP Board | Apr 15, 2025 | Division News, Program News
Stratton Patroller Lewis Berman, CT Alumni Advisor Bob Cassello, Eastern Division Alumni Supervisor Allan Miller
Stratton Mountain buzzed with camaraderie and shared passion as alumni, active patrollers, regional leaders, and friends of the National Ski Patrol (NSP) gathered from March 18-22, 2025 for the second annual Eastern Alumni Event. Organized again this year with meticulous attention to detail by Eastern Division’s Alumni Advisor, Allan Miller, and the Region Alumni Advisors, the event proved to be a resounding success, offering a perfect blend of engaging activities, insightful discussions, and excellent spring skiing.
The Black Bear Lodge served as the event’s hub, providing a cozy and convenient location just a short stroll from Stratton Village. Attendees traveled from across the entire Eastern Division for a few days or the entire week, and were offered five days of thoughtfully planned activities, fostering connections and celebrating the rich history and future of the NSP.
The event started on Sunday evening with a warm welcome get-together in the Black Bear Lodge lounge, followed by a delightful dinner at Table 43.1. This set the tone for a week of shared meals and lively conversations.
Each day began with a meet-up and boot-up at the Gondola side of the Main Base Lodge, ensuring everyone was ready to hit the slopes. Monday’s agenda featured a mountain tour led by Stratton Ski Patrol’s Lewis Berman, providing attendees with an insider’s perspective on the mountain’s terrain.
Tuesday offered an opportunity to tour the very unique Stratton Mountain Urgent Care, led by Executive Director Seth Boyd. This visit provided a glimpse into the incredible medical support system that not only keeps skiers safe on the mountain but also provides health services for the entire community.
Wednesday’s schedule included a tour of the Summit Patrol HQ, led by Patrol Director Chris Schilling. This afforded a fascinating look at the inner workings of the very efficient Stratton Ski Patrol. That same evening, I was offered the opportunity to speak with a group of about fifty members. As one might imagine, sage and savvy alumni peppered me with very specific questions about programs, program delivery, current initiatives, and the future direction of the NSP. And I survived.
Thursday’s activities included a presentation by Kathy Fitzpatrick from the NSP Safety Team, focusing on crucial safety protocols and best practices. Later, National Historian Rick Hamlin captivated the audience with a presentation on the rich history of the NSP.
Friday provided a final day of skiing and socializing, with attendees enjoying the classic spring conditions and each other’s company.
In attendance were 50 patrollers and partners from all over the Eastern Division. A special thanks to Minnie Dole Award recipient Dick Woolf, a Stratton patroller, who ensured the group felt welcomed and well-cared for, allowing everyone to experience the best of Stratton.
NSP is extremely grateful to its loyal alumni members, who continue to contribute through instruction, mentoring, and board/committee participation. There is a great deal of knowledge in this group, and we deeply appreciate their input. The Eastern Alumni Event at Stratton Mountain was a testament to the enduring bonds within the NSP community. It was a week filled with skiing, learning, laughter, and the shared passion that unites all who are dedicated to the safety and enjoyment of the slopes. Watch for this event next season. Regardless of your NSP status, the Alumni Group welcomes you to attend.
by Chuck Boyd, Nordic/Backcountry Supervisor | Apr 15, 2025 | Division News, Program News
Our Backcountry Skiing/Riding and Toboggan Enhancement Course focuses on skiing/riding, skinning, and toboggan handling. It furthers the skills introduced and mastered at lift-served ski areas. It gives members a chance to adapt these skills to the backcountry, where the snow is deeper and variable, requiring different strategies, tactics, and additional stamina. This is the first all-backcountry program offered by the Eastern Division.
Pike Glades turned out to be an amazing location. The property is utilized by the Upper Valley Stewardship Center, a non-profit whose staff works hard to maintain and upkeep access, skin tracks, and signage.
This terrain is a collection of northeast-facing glades accessible by ski touring, splitboarding, or snowshoeing. The peak summits are above the tree line at 2200’ and the base is at 700’. No matter your skiing ability, you will be thrilled by the skiing at this location.
This was our first Nordic/Backcountry event at this location, and it was so well-received that we already scheduled next year’s backcountry event and are looking to schedule the 2025 AMN instructor refresher at the same location.
Our weekend started at the Community Center for the Oliverian School, with a meet and greet, plus breakfast and trip planning. While the group was getting organized, equipment and supplies were being shuttled to the Warrior’s Cabin, which is located mid-mountain at the end of a service road. During the winter of 2025, it was plowed by a construction contractor renovating the cabin. The Warrior’s Cabin is heated by propane and was used to store potable water, solar-powered battery packs for recharging radios and cell phones, and for drying gear. Saturday dinner and Sunday breakfast were prepared inside the cabin.
Our ski tour started up the Joan Wolter Trail towards the summit and a cabin called “The Shire.” Along the way, we demonstrated and practiced uphill travel techniques and transitions. The weather was beautiful as we arrived at the Shire to have a snack, admire the breathtaking views, and transition for our downhill ski through the glades back to the Warrior’s Cabin.
Our sleeping accommodation was winter camping. All attendees were experienced in outdoor winter overnighting. Tents were set up behind the Warrior’s Cabin, where there was an outstanding view of Mount Moosilauke.
On our second skin up, four patrollers each carried sections of a Cascade rescue sled with handles. Once back at the Shire, we assembled the toboggan, assigned a patient, and took turns managing the loaded toboggan through the glades. It was quite challenging for most of us as we all learned and tried new skills.
Dinner was back at the cabin, where Linda had prepared a hearty meal of meat and vegetarian Irish stews. This was topped off with a homemade wacky cake for dessert. Once finished, the evening navigation exercises began. Using CalTopo on their phones, the participants entered several waypoints that they needed to locate outside along the trail. The last waypoint held a hidden surprise.
Sunday morning was low-angle rescue (LAR) with both raising and lowering a loaded SKED. Dead Fred, a local patrol mannequin, volunteered to be our patient. Knots and anchors were practiced and built. The SKED was first lowered using a munter/mule knot with prusik backups. This was then converted into a 3:1 raising system with double prusiks. By the end, Fred didn’t look any worse for wear.
The highlight of the weekend was to have the DHART helicopter land in a landing zone we created. The group got a lot out of the pilot’s explanation regarding landing in a possible snow LZ. The tour of the bird was great, and both the students and instructors were extremely happy to learn how the medical crew took a patient hand-off.
Huge thanks to all the instructors, staff of the UVSC, DHART, the local community, and all the participants who helped make this such a great event. As mentioned above, we are already making plans at this location for next year. Stay tuned.
Our final event was held at Bolton Valley, VT, which included Nordic Senior training, exam, and Nordic Master training.
by Sue-Ellen Helmacy, Awards Supervisor | Feb 18, 2025 | Division News, National News
The Eastern Division has an incredibly talented group of patrollers. We are proud that so many were honored with awards this year. This is a list of the awards winners for 2024, including our Eastern Division patrollers who won National Outstanding Awards and the Eastern Division Outstanding Awards winners. The list also includes National and Leadership Commendation Appointments, Distinguished and Meritorious Service, Purple, Blue, Green, and Yellow Merit Stars, Patriot Star, Patroller Cross, and Patroller Achievement Award winners, plus 50-year Lifetime Service Awards.
