Hello. My name is Douglas Keith and I am the new chairperson for what was formerly known as the Bangor Committee. My wife Kathleen and I moved to Trenton Maine in December 1998. We are both longtime members and trip leaders with the AMC. I have formerly been active in both the Delaware Valley chapter and the New Hampshire chapter. Both Kathleen and I enjoy hiking, backpacking, winter mountaineering, backcountry skiing, canoeing and sea kayaking. I have hiked extensively throughout the Northeast and have put in more than 2500 miles on the Appalachian Trail since 1995.
My first act upon assuming the chair was to ponder a change in the name of the sub-chapter. I felt that the term Bangor was inappropriate when referring to so vast and diverse an area. After deep reflection I felt that the proper name was the Penobscot sub-chapter. The Penobscot river arises in the mountains and flows through much of northern Maine before circling the Down East area and exiting into the sea, thereby encompassing much of the area covered by the Committee. Furthermore, it denotes a natural feature instead of a manmade one and therefore seems more appropriate for a group dedicated to the recreational use and conservation of our natural environment.
My next goal for the sub-chapter is to increase the level of AMC activities and the participation of the members in the area. As a means to that end I am initiating several lists of outdoor objectives in the area. Those who wish may come on club trips or hike on their own to complete these lists. The lists will include hiking destinations in the Acadia area, further Down East and the Baxter state park area. Upon completion I will confer a certificate to recognize the accomplishment. I hope that this will increase interest and activity in the Northern and Down East areas.
We are blessed to live in a wonderful area with many outstanding outdoor destinations. It is my fervent belief that we as a community of club members can explore and enjoy this area better than we could as individuals! So come on out on a trip. I hope to see you out there!
Sincerely,
Doug Keith
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