January 1, 2024 and there is NO SNOW in Bend!!!  The scheduled "show-and-go" ski outing was scrapped of necessity and hikes were substituted.  A few club members began the New Year with a hike on the Riley Ranch trails. It was a clear and cool winter day walking along the Deschutes river through the Ponderosa pines.  A wonderful alternative to skiing as we wait for more snow .  Another group of 14 folks headed to Otter Bench, hoping for trails that weren't muddy.  

And they got that; but as they approached the trailhead with clear views of Smith Rock, they desc-

ended into a fog bank.  No matter!  Everyone mingled and converged into small social groups to welcome the New Year; and ate lunch standing up!