I started trail clearing in the early 90's soon after I joined HTMC.  In those days it was common for only 5 or 6 members to show up for clearings.  The crew welcomed me because I was the youngest one and willing to do a lot of chopping.  However I couldn't help but wonder why a short gray-haired lady was in charge of Trail Clearing.  She looked like she should be at home knitting.  Looks can be very deceiving, as I soon discovered how tough and extremely knowledgeable this lady was.  She also happened to be a fantastic cook.

Mable told me that she didn't start hiking till she was in her 50's and incredibly, her first hike with HTMC was Bowman!  She made it all the way to the summit, got covered with mud, her kids laughed at her, but she fell in love with hiking.  I'll bet most people in their 50's if they tried Bowman as a first hike, whould turn around before the halfway point and vow never to hike again.  We have lost a truly great member but we can honor her by doing our best to keep the trails cleared.  Especially Bowman.

Arnold Fujioka
lifetime club member