Rick Powell of Parkesburg and Casey Eichfeld of Drums are two young men with a lofty goal--to be the best in the world of whitewater C-2 canoeing, with their hearts and minds set on slalom racing in the 2008 or 2012 summer Olympics. Both Powell, 18, and Eichfeld, 17, are well-known in boating circles in the Reading area. Powell and his family have been members of the Keystone Canoe Club for many years. Both young men started boating at 2 or 3 years old with the help of their parents and various club members. Eichfeld raced by himself in C-1 at the Penn's Cup races on the Lehigh at age 6, while Powell won his first race at age 3 in OC-2 with his mom, Sandy.

On September 9th the Penn Cup whitewater slalom race was run on the Little Lehigh near Allentown, PA. Sponsored by the Lehigh Valley Canoe Club, this race is the 31st canoe/kayak slalom race organized by the club. Held at different locations throughout the state, the series of four races are each sponsored by a different paddling club. Most paddlers race for fun and to improve their paddling skills, regardless of age. Classes are divided by the type of boat and the age and gender of the paddlers. Paddlers run as fast as possible through each of 20 gates in sequence, in the correct direction, while trying not to touch the gate. Seconds are added as penalties for touching or missing a gate. Each paddler tries to complete a 'clean run', without any penalties. Strength, boat control, balance, and endurance are keys to success. Concentration and experience in reading the water add finesse and smoothness to each performance. It's exciting to see both beginners and experts just having a great time on the river.

Members of the KCC were saddened to learn of the passing of their president, Jay Hunsinger on August 27th. This fun-loving, big- hearted man was the one who greeted people, joked with the old members, and made everyone feel welcome. He spent a great deal of time talking with prospective new members about paddling and joining the club. Because of Jay's leadership and the way he treated people, the club is growing and active again. As he said good-bye at the last meeting, he turned and winked, growling, "We've got it started. Now keep it going."

Many hands make light work at Peter Yarnell Park. Thanks for your help!

The Christmas party is rescheduled for Tuesday, December 18th, at 5:30 to 8:30 pm, to be held at the Muhlenberg Township Recreation Building on River Road. We would appreciate it if you would bring a potluck food to share. You can coordinate what to bring with Doris Ketner if you wish. Otherwise, desserts or a salad item would be great. Baked ham, turkey and drinks (coffee, soda, water, etc.) will be provided by the club. Also, if you wish, you can bring a gift item to exchange, less than $10 value preferred. We will eat, present some awards, and then show a slide program about Jay. We are looking forward to seeing you there!