Spring VAR 2009

Grand Caverns Regional Park, Grottoes, VA

April 24-26, 2009

NOTE: The organizers and details of the Spring VAR have changed, but it will still be held at the same time in the same place. Details are still be finalized and some may be changed yet. Check back often.

Come shake off the winter, frolick with your friends, and discuss WNS ad nauseum at this year's Spring VAR meeting April 24-26, 2009 at Grand Caverns Regional Park in Grottoes, VA. Do not let disinfection distractions disuade your decision! Fun will be had regardless.

Registration

Caving

While we encourage cooperation with the suggested caving moratorium, and have provided ample non-caving activities, we realize the moratorium is voluntary (escept for certain caves) and not all cavers will choose to cooperate. There will be trips to Cave Springs Cave, Sites (vertical), Porter's, and hopefully Glade. Anyone choosing to go caving must disinfect all their gear according to established protocol before coming to VAR! See the activities tent for directions, details, and signup. Volunteer trip leaders are welcome.

Government owned caves, which include Marshalls, Kees, Blood, Cave Mountain Cave, and Church Mountain, will remain closed. All NSS-owned caves, including the Trout Rocks Caves, will also remain closed.

Grand Caverns will have a special VAR rate of only $5 per person for the weekend. We are very sorry, but the Park has closed Fountain Cave until at least May 31st and we have had to cancel the kids trip there. Other Virginia caves may offer special discounts for Virginia Cave Week.

Accomodations

The park features ample room for camping, but no hookups for RVs. The pool building will be open for hot showers and flush toilets, and additional portapotties will also be available.

Activities

Cave movies will be shown Friday night, first for the little ones, and later for the larger ones.

Sinkhole Cleanup: In the spirit of service to caves without fear of spreading WNS, a major sinkhole cleanup is planned on Cave Hill Saturday and we can use plenty of help.

Speleo-putt-putt will be all the rage at VAR. All Region Grottos and individuals are urged to Adopt a Hole to help decorate and spiff up the course. Claim yours now, they are going fast!

Geocaching: Over a dozen geocaches are located within 5 miles and several are located right on the property within walking distance.

Watersports: Canoe, kayak, and rubber ducky races will be held on the adjacent South River.

Crozet Tunnel: There will be a guided trip on Saturday. Sign up Friday night.

Via Ferrata: Mike Frazier is leading an intense climbing adventure with a huge thrill factor to the Via Ferrata at Nelson Rocks on Saturday, April 24. Sorry, registration is now closed.

Rock Climbing: Ken Mays will be leading a rock climbing trip on Saturday.

Vendors: Replace your old, worn out gear or stock up on multiple new cave outfits at the Vendors. Inner Mountain Outfitters, Caver's Connection, and Speleobooks will be there for your buying pleasure!

Saturday Party

Catered Dinner:

• Sloppy Jims (like sloppy Joes)
• Pork BBQ
• Vegetarian Lasagna
• Macaroni and Cheese
• Green Beans
• Cole Slaw
• Assorted desserts
• Tea, Lemonade, and Water

Program:

• Caving above ground: Conservation and landowner relations projects around the Region.

Entertainment:

• DJ John Fox
• Squeezebox(es) supplied for the masochistic
• Your favorite caver beverages
• FIRE!

Sunday Meeting

Front Royal Grotto will be serving a pancake breakfast on Sunday morning for an additional $4. To prevent us running out of food you are highly encouraged to pre-register for breakfast, although they will accept cash at the door.

The VAR Business meeting will convene Sunday morning at 9:00 AM. Expect a rowdy meeting! Chairman Craig will preside with an iron axe.