by Anna Hermann, WAPP YAP Advisor | Apr 15, 2025 | Program News
Every March, without fail, I look forward to the Eastern Division YAP Summit. It’s a significant event for many young adults, but I’m just like them—eager to hit the slopes, ski the trees and bumps, and find the good trouble we can get into. I’m always excited to learn something new (you’re never too old to learn something new), to watch the YAPs in the enhancement track gain confidence and knowledge in just three short days, and to see the competition groups cheer each other on. Of course, the awards banquet is always bittersweet. I’m never quite ready for the weekend to end, but I’m thrilled to see where the YAPs place and what cool swag they win. It’s truly an honor to return each year as a shepherd—arguably the best role anyone can have over the weekend, aside from being a YAP.
At the 2025 Summit, the staff decided to try something completely different—something far from the usual outdoor evening activity. The groups had the unique opportunity to create their senior-level scenarios and run them as instructors. Various chaperones, staff, and other adults were invited to participate as patrollers on the scene. For those fortunate enough to be there, well, it’s one for the books. Kudos to the creativity of these young adults!
A kind parent shared a few words about their YAP, whom I had the honor of shepherding and chaperoning—someone I hadn’t met before the event. This will be marked as the weekend she learned how to ski the bumps!
From the parents’ perspective
—I just wanted to thank you and your team for such a great event this past weekend.
—My daughter had a fabulous time.
—She made great friends, challenged her skills, and significantly grew her confidence.
—She is already excited to sign up for next year.
—I thought the event was extremely well-organized and well-run.
—Everybody was so nice and accommodating. I felt 100% comfortable letting my daughter go and do her thing.
—Your hard work did not go unnoticed.
—I cannot say enough good things.
—Have a great rest of the year and see you next year!
—Thank you again for such an amazing program.
Did somebody say SWAG?
This year didn’t fall short of being amazing. There was great skiing, fantastic OET and OEC instructors, and, best of all, an OUTSTANDING group of Young Adults! This year’s event was the largest by far, with 83 YAPs! That may seem like a large number, and no doubt it is, but over the weekend, shepherds get to know all their YAPs and unique backstories. We are truly fortunate in the Eastern Division to have such a strong program, where the hard work of the staff at every level—from division, region, and mountain—culminates in an event like this, reflecting the dedication and effort that flows through this division program. This is the future of our division; these are our future leaders.
by Amy Reinink, ENY Women's Program Advisor | Apr 15, 2025 | Program News
Our student took a deep breath, then grasped the toboggan handles.
“OK,” she said. “I’m going to send it.”
This retired Air Force veteran and new ski patroller had come to the Eastern New York Women’s Clinic at Gore Mountain on March 22 to gain confidence pulling sleds. A chorus of encouragement rang out from other participants.
Yes, it’s very steep!
“You’ve got this.”
“That’s it!”
“You’re doing it!”
A couple of hours later, I heard the same chorus as two other participants guided a toboggan over the headwall of Lies, one of Gore’s steepest runs. As they approached the bottom, the chorus morphed into shouts of celebration.
For the three women who participated on March 22, that camaraderie, encouragement, and shared vulnerability made it possible for them to push their limits while having a blast.
That vibe was present at women’s clinics throughout the Eastern Division last season.
In Northern Vermont, Women’s Program Advisor Geneviève Talbert held three sessions throughout the region. At Smugglers’ Notch on January 26, eight women of varying abilities honed their skills, from a candidate still undergoing OET training to an advanced group that practiced belaying techniques in a glade and over rocky, icy, steep terrain.
At Burke Mountain on February 10, eight participants skinned uphill, then met for hot chocolate at the summit. They gathered and divided into groups for a GPS search on the skiing run down. After lunch came a discussion on how to pack for a search and rescue and a session on a rescue SKED. And at Mad River Glen on March 10, 13 participants skied, pulled sleds, and practiced OEC.
Magic Mountain patroller Jennie Sakimura experienced the camaraderie of a women’s program firsthand at the two-day Women’s Skiing Skills and Toboggan Handling Enhancement Seminar as part of Killington Patroller School.
Here’s her description: As a Basic Patroller who learned to ski after age 40, I’ve often found confidence on the slopes to be elusive. This clinic provided more than just technical instruction—it offered a supportive environment where fundamental skills finally “clicked” for me.
We’re ready to show off our skills.
Toboggan handling on challenging terrain pushed me beyond my comfort zone, but with the encouragement of our instructors and fellow female participants, I discovered new ways to think about the way I ski and learned new strategies. It was such a gift to have the space to practice new skills, and the camaraderie among our group created a special, encouraging dynamic that was so energizing. Our instructors were equipped with impressive skills and achievements, and were able to relate to the group, which made complex techniques accessible and achievable.
After two exhausting but exhilarating days at Killington, I returned home with more than just improved technique. I carried with me a newfound confidence and felt an enduring breakthrough in my skills. I cannot recommend this program enough. It’s not just about becoming a better skier and toboggan handler; it’s about discovering a community, learning, and finding joy in pushing your boundaries.
by Bill Zink, Certified Chair | 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 Rich Pietrafesa, NSP Board Chair | 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 Allan Miller, Alumni Supervisor | Feb 18, 2025 | Division News, Program News
2025 Annual Alumni & Patroller Celebration – March 16-20
• Celebrate, ski, and reconnect at the 2nd Annual Eastern Division NSP Alumni & Patroller Celebration!
• Join us at Stratton Mountain for an unforgettable gathering of NSP alumni and patrollers as we celebrate our shared passion for skiing and patrolling!
• Come for as long as you’d like—whether it’s a day or the whole event, the choice is yours!
Go to PatrollerSchool.org for information and a registration form. Use this link 2025 Flyer for the flyer with the details.
Genesee Valley Region Annual Alumni Day Invitation – February 28
• Friday, February 28, 2025, from 9:30 am to 2:00 pm at Hunt Hollow.
• The last day to register and order lunch is February 21!
• To register and get all the event information please click this link 2023 Genesee Valley Region Alumni Day
• Be sure to click the SUBMIT button at the end of the form.
Western Mass Region Annual Alumni Day – March 5
Calling all WMR Ski Patrol Alumni and Guests
Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at Ski Butternut, Great Barrington, MA
• Join us for a day of skiing or just come for lunch and camaraderie!
• Check in at the Upper Lodge and enjoy coffee and doughnuts at 9:00 AM.
• Lift tickets courtesy of Butternut Ski Patrol – hit the trails or hang out.
• Noon Buffet Lunch.
• Free for currently registered WMR Alumni.
• $10 cash payable at the door for all other family and guests.
RSVP for lift tickets and/or lunch to Ann Migliaccio.
Eastern New York Region 3rd Annual Alumni Day – March 9
• The Royal Mountain Ski Patrol will host the 3rd Annual ENY Alumni Day on March 9.
• Mountain management will provide a free day pass to currently registered alumni and patrollers.
• Those interested can assist the patrol with opening, mid-day, and closing trail checks.
• The day will begin when we gather at 8:30 to 9:00 AM at the Patrol Building at the top of the parking lot.
• Mid-morning breakfast and mid-afternoon lunch will be provided at the patrol top shack.
• You can attend for the full day or any part of the day
• We will meet in the Velcro Lounge at closing for a beer.
If you plan to attend, please respond to Dan Crandall or 518.365.6277.
by Harriet Frawley, Memorial/Scholarship Advisor | Feb 18, 2025 | Division News, Program News
It’s that time of year when students are anticipating acceptance letters, narrowing down college majors, and making their final decisions about where to commit to for next fall. Current students and adult learners may be exploring graduate programs, or further coursework to facilitate a career change.
Any Eastern Division patroller who is seeking to pursue further education is eligible to apply for the 2025 David J. Nelson Sr. Memorial Scholarship. Now is the time of year to apply. Applications will be accepted through March 31.
Please see https://www.nspeast.org/memorial-scholarship.html to download the application and for more information. There, you can also learn about the origins of the Memorial Fund and how to honor the memory of a fellow patroller with a donation.
Here’s a recap of our 2024 Memorial Scholarship recipients. Be sure to congratulate them and ask about their studies when you see them on the hill this season.
Scholarships [$1,250]
Avery Laitala
Wachusett Mountain/EMARI
Biomedical Engineering/University of Connecticut
Cooper Biersbach
Holimont/WNY
Mechanical Engineering/SUNY at Buffalo
Lauryn Constantineau
Gore Mountain/ENY
Biology/Clarkson University
Joseph Brodsky
West Point/WMASS
Philosophy/NYU.
Honorable Mentions [$500]
Joanna Eckhardt
Swain/Genessee Valley
Nursing/Elmira College
Kathleen Knefley
Ski Sawmill/WAPP
BS in Nursing/The Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania.
Caroline McKeon
Blue Mountain/EPA
Wildlife Conservation Biology/University of NH
Jadon Crawford
Elk Mountain/EPA
Penn College of Technology/Heavy Equipment Operator.
by Heather Newman, Women's Supervisor | Feb 18, 2025 | Division News, Program News
The Eastern Division’s Women’s Program is off to a fantastic start for the 2024-2025 season, with successful clinics that have drawn great enthusiasm and participation. The program continues to provide opportunities for women of all skill levels to improve their mountain sports abilities, try new activities, and connect with like-minded peers.
The program has hosted clinics at Elk, Killington, Smugglers’ Notch, Gore, Plattekill, Wisp, Labrador, and Burke Mountain this season. In addition to ski and toboggan enhancement, the program has offered guided uphill skiing, skiing/riding, GPS search and navigation, and Nordic.
- Participants have been excited by the opportunity to try new activities and refine existing skills in a supportive and encouraging environment. We’ve received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with many women expressing their appreciation for the camaraderie and expert instruction encountered at each clinic. Here’s what a few participants had to say:
- “This was a fabulous clinic organized and run by experienced, informative women. The instructors worked very well together to provide a comprehensive and fun day with the attendees. I learned more this day than expected!” – Labrador Mountain participant
- “Great instruction with positive encouragement and a can-do attitude. It was powerful, and I am thankful to the instructors for being inclusive to all levels!” – Megan S., Smugglers’ Notch Clinic
- “Creating a safe space for women to step outside their comfort zones with some amazing instructors. I felt supported every step of the way!” – Smugglers’ Notch participant
- “The pre-event organization and communication were matched with highly skilled instructors. Their ability to identify improvement needs, demonstrate techniques, and communicate concisely made this program highly successful.” – Elk Mountain participant
Looking ahead, we’re excited to announce the next clinics:
• Blue Mountain (EPA) on February 23
• Otis Ridge (WMA) on March 2
• Mad River Glen (NVT) on March 10
We are also thrilled to offer the Women’s Program Scholarship in Memory of Deborah Stitt again this year. Deborah had the opportunity to attend an Eastern Division Patroller School, where she was empowered to continue her patrol journey and support other women patrollers in developing their leadership skills within the National Ski Patrol (NSP). More information about the scholarship can be found at Patrollerschool.org.
Be sure to check out our Facebook page, National Ski Patrol – Eastern Divisions Women’s Program for a listing of upcoming events and additional details!
As the season progresses, the Women’s Program will continue to offer these clinics to foster a sense of community, adventure, and skill-building among women in the division. Stay tuned for more updates and opportunities to get involved!
