I'm putting out a call to '08 Thru-hikers and others with recent long-distance A.T. experience to help with a workshop at the A.T. Festival in Castleton, Vermont, on Sunday, July 19 at 1:15 pm (Stafford 146).

"2008 Thru-Hikers Share Secrets of Success" will be moderated by Bill O'Brien, longtime Appalachian Long Distance Hiker's Association (ALDHA) leader and me. This workshop will be in the same format that's used every fall at The Gathering: recent thru-hikers stand at the front of the room and answer questions from the audience about thru-hiking and recent trends in gear, and everything A.T.-related. 51 people are registered so far.

Since we don't know how many '08 thru-hikers will be attending the festival, we're broadening the criteria for those who will be answering questions.

If you're not already registered for the festival and don't plan on participating in any other part of the festival, your registration fee will be waived. I don't yet know if I'll need to submit your name in advance for you to be able to get in, but either way I'd appreciate hearing from you if can come. Post here or email me (before July 17) at lpotteiger@appalachiantrail.org.

There's more info about the festival at www.vermont2009.org.

Laurie Potteiger
ATC