 |
||
|
This is a list of all the latest news and happenings at all six Touchstone Facilities. This blog also contains general information about Rock Climbing, Cycling and other items that Touchstone members may find interesting. Tuesday, February 2, 2010Alison's Abs & Core Class
Mission Cliffs has just added another Abs + Core class on Wednesday mornings beginning Feb. 3rd from 7:30am - 8:30am.
Alison is a lifelong athlete and avid climber who first discovered Pilates in 2006 when a series of back injuries left her in pain and unable to participate fully in the activities she loved. Lo and behold, the practice of Pilates helped her to strengthen and stabilize her core, which led to a happier life and, as an added benefit, a much improved climbing ability. Desiring to spread this discovery to her peers, Alison completed her teacher training in 2008 at the EHS Pilates Institute where she trained with several outstanding instructors, including Ellie Herman. Alison believes strongly in the benefits of Pilates and loves to challenge students of all levels to increase their overall strength and level of fitness. Her classes draw on Pilates concepts, and emphasize core strength, balance and flexibility.  Core the Pilates Way is a challenging and fast-paced core conditioning class. This hour of exercise draws inspiration from the Pilates Method and will not only strengthen the core muscle groups of your body, but will also improve your balance and flexibility on the climbing wall and in your other athletic pursuits. The class combines high numbers of reps with very little rest between exercises to ensure that you will sweat and work every minute! Many exercises include modifications for those who are struggling, or those who want an increased challenge, so everyone is welcome, no matter what your level of fitness. You will notice a positive difference in your core strength if you attend consistently for a couple of months! Labels: Ellie Herman, mission cliffs, Pilates Saturday, December 26, 2009Mission Cliffs and SF Food Bank
On December 15th, Mission Cliffs members, staff, and friends gathered at the SF Food Bank to volunteer and help feed the hungry in San Francisco. The Food Bank provides food to over 22,000 households every week, and serves 78,000 meals per day, through 400+ nonprofit partners. That night, volunteers helped package over 2,300 lbs of rice.
 An astonishing 49 million Americans face food insecurity this year. Visit www.sffoodbank.org to learn more about how you can stop hunger. Labels: Food Drive, mission cliffs, SF Food Bank Monday, December 14, 2009Holiday Hours
In the spirit of the Holidays, the gyms will be having different hours. A lot of employees will be visiting family- more of them will be climbing!
Mission Cliffs Dec 24- 6:30 Am - 7Pm Dec 25- Closed for Christmas Dec 31- 6:30 Am - 7 Pm Jan 1- Closed for New Year's Sacramento Pipeworks Dec 24- 9 Am - 6 Pm Dec 25- Closed for Christmas Dec 31- 9 Am - 6 Pm Jan 1- Closed for New Year's Berkeley Ironworks Dec 24 - 6am-6pm No Classes Dec 25 - Closed for Christmas Dec 26 - 6 am-6pm No Classes Dec 31 - 6 am-6pm No Classes January 1 - Closed For New Year's Great Western Power Company Dec 24- 6:30 Am - 6 Pm Dec 25- Closed for Christmas Dec 31- 6:30 Am - 6 Pm Jan 1- Closed for New Year's Diablo Rock Gym Dec 24th 5:30 am - 6:00 pm Dec 25th Closed for Christmas Dec 26th 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Dec 31st 5:30 am - 6:00 pm Jan 1st Closed for New Year's Jan 2nd 9:00 am - 6:00 pm  The East Side in the Winter. Labels: Berkeley Ironworks, Diablo Rock Gym, Great Western Power Co., mission cliffs, Sacramento Pipeworks Wednesday, December 9, 2009Mission Cliffs and SF Food Bank
Help make a difference this Holiday Season: Spend an evening with Mission Cliffs staff and your fellow climbers at the SF Food Bank. This year has been tough on us all, and organizations like the food bank need all the helping hands they can get. Who better to lend a hand than a group of climbers? Give back to our community, join a great cause, and get outta the gym for a few hours! If you'd like to volunteer, and are free on Tuesday, December 15th, email donna@touchstoneclimbing.com to sign up and get the info by Dec. 11th. An astonishing 49 million americans face food insecurity. Visit www.sffoodbank.org to learn more about how you can stop hunger.
When: Tuesday, Dec 15th 6:00-8:00pm Where: SF Food Bank Contact: Donna Dunlap by Dec. 11th  Labels: Food Drive, mission cliffs, SF Food Bank Monday, November 16, 2009Mission Cliffs Staffer on East Coast Tour
Kelly McFarling recently took a leave of absence from Mission Cliffs to go on an East Coast tour to promote her music as a singer songwriter. Starting in Atlanta GA, Kelly worked her way all the way up the Appalachians, playing shows in South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, New York, Massachusetts and Maine. She traveled in a 1990 VW bus with her Banjo and Jonathan Kirchner - an upright bass player also from San Francisco. Kelly frequently plays in the bay area, and was excited at the opportunity to widen her musical experience on the east coast and meet and play with other musicians from around the country. Her favorite part about the tour was getting to play music every night to a new group of people, and being able to see Autumn on the east coast.
 You can check out her music and where she is playing in the bay at www.myspace.com/kellymcfarlingmusic. Labels: Kelly McFarling, mission cliffs, singer songwriter Wednesday, November 11, 2009Mission Cliffs Women's Showers
On Sunday, November 15, the women's showers at Mission Cliffs will be closed for re-tiling. Sorry for the inconvenience. Hope to see you cranking in the gym!
 Labels: mission cliffs, Women's Showers Thursday, November 5, 2009Outward Bound at Mission Cliffs
The Outward Bound Youth Leadership Corps made a recent trip to Mission Cliffs helping their transfer from summer climbing and backpacking trips in the Sierras to climbing in the gyms of San Francisco. Maggie Lyons, the community liaison for Outward Bound, along with the 2009 Leadership Awardees joined Sherry and the Mission Cliffs staff for a fun day of climbing. Maggie wrote, "It was great for these youth from around the city to find a connection to climbing within their city." And added that climbing with Sherry and the others at Mission Cliffs was awesome. "Everyone at MC was so helpful and welcoming, and the students got to work out, face a challenge, support each other and have fun! We hope to climb again with you soon!" Way to go Sherry and the others at MC for helping these kids have a great day of climbing.
 Labels: Maggie Lyons, mission cliffs, Outward Bound, Sherry Thursday, October 29, 2009Women's Beginning Climbing Series at Mission Cliffs
Join Kristin for a 3-part Women's Beginning Climbing series on Wednesdays, November 4th, 11th & 18th. This is a great clinic for those that know how to belay but would like more climbing technique tips. Work on hand & footwork, body movement, tech drills, safety...and lots of climbing! Join a small group for three memorable classes.
Sign-up at the front desk, or call Mission Cliffs at 415 550-0515. Only $90 members and $100 non-members.  Labels: Beginning Climbing, mission cliffs, Women's Climbing Thursday, October 22, 2009Ted Lowe- Familar face of Mission Cliffs
There is a familiar face at Mission Cliffs that we won't be seeing anymore. Our long time friend Ted Lowe unexpectedly left this life last week, way too soon for any of us that knew him. Ted loved to ski, windsurf and of course, climb. In some ways this was a second home to him. Many of his valuable and lasting relationships began and grew here in the same way they have for all members, finding good company with those who love the outdoors, adventure, challenging themselves as well as encouraging others. Everyone who will remember Ted will do so fondly and may his passing encourage us all to appreciate the time we are privileged to share a little more. Climb on.
* Please join us on November 8th (7:30-10:00 pm) at Mission Cliffs to celebrate his life. -Scott Sawyer  Labels: memorial, mission cliffs, Ted Lowe Friday, October 2, 2009New Mission Cliffs Floor
For the past few weeks, we have been refurbishing our floors, and the project is finally finished! The process involved a series of grinds and diamond polishes, leaving us with a beautiful new shine. No chemicals, epoxies or sealers were applied; the concrete was simply sanded like a piece of wood. We’d like to thank Richard Southard of Concrete Engravers and his diligent crew, for all the late nights and weekends they put in to get the job done. Enjoy!
 Labels: Concrete Engravers, mission cliffs, new floor Saturday, September 19, 2009Mission Cliffs Wins Best of Bay
More than 8,000 readers took a San Francisco Bay Guardian survey to determine the best areas restaurants, sports teams, and clubs in the Bay Area. Mission Cliffs was voted the Best Gym in the Bay Area, winning over the numerous traditional weight rooms, and Crossfit gyms. Congratulations to the staff at Mission Cliffs for keeping the gym one of the best places to hang out and work out in the city.
 BEST GYM Mission Cliffs 2295 Harrison, SF. (415) 550-0515, www.touchstoneclimbing.com/mc.html Labels: Bay Area Guardian, best gym, mission cliffs Thursday, September 10, 2009Pilates Class
This Friday, 9/11, from 5-5:55pm Alison will be holding a Pilates class at Mission Cliffs.
Alison is a llifelong athlete and avid climber who first discovered Pilates in 2006 when when a series of back injuries left her in pain and unable to participate fully in the activities she loved. Pilates helped her to strengthen and stabilize her core, which led to a happier life and, as an added benefit, a much improved climbing ability. Desiring to spread this discovery to her peers, Alison completed her teacher training in 2008 at the EHS Pilates Institute where she trained with several outstanding instructors, including Ellie Herman. Alison believes strongly in the benefits of Pilates and loves to challenge students of all levels to increase their overall strength and level of fitness. Her classes draw on Pilates concepts, and emphasize core strength, balance and flexibility.  Class Description: Core the Pilates Way is a challenging and fast-paced core conditioning class. This hour of exercise draws inspiration from the Pilates Method and will not only strengthen the core muscle groups of your body, but will also improve your balance and flexibility on the climbing wall and in your other athletic pursuits. The class combines high numbers of reps with very little rest between exercises to ensure that you will sweat and work every minute! Many exercises include modifications for those who are struggling, or those who want an increased challenge, so everyone is welcome, no matter what your level of fitness. You will notice a positive difference in your core strength if you attend consistently for a couple of months!  Labels: Ellie Herman, mission cliffs, Pilates Monday, August 10, 2009Mission Cliffs Comp Photos Over a hundred great photos of the Mission Cliffs Climbing Comp, TBS5, have been posted over at the website. Check them out on the Touchstone website by clicking on the BETA pull down bar and choosing Gallery or by clicking on this link: Mission Cliffs Photos:  Labels: Climbing Competitions, mission cliffs, TBS5 Tuesday, July 28, 2009Record Turnout for Mission Cliffs Comp
A record number of climbers came out Friday night for the first of the Touchstone Bouldering Series Comps. Over 330 men, women, and kids clambered into the Mission Cliffs gym to compete, crank on the 60+ new boulder problems, enjoy the festivities, and win awesome raffle prizes.
 Results from the Men's Advanced results are: 1. Matt Bingham 2. James Murase 3. Vitaly Volberg Results from the Women's Advanced results are: 1. Halley Tollner 2. Kim Groebner 3. Kari Donatelli  Check out some highlights from the comp: TBS 5 @ Mission Cliffs, SF 2009 from Mission Cliffs on Vimeo. Stay tuned for the next comp in the series at Diablo Rock Gym. Labels: mission cliffs, TBS5 Tuesday, July 21, 2009TBS5- Comp at Mission Cliffs on Friday The Touchstone Bouldering Series Comps will be kicking off this Friday night, July 24, at San Francisco's Mission Cliffs. There will be over 60+ boulder problems to crank on at the gym, free food, drinks, a raffle with awesome climbing prizes, t-shirts for all competitors, and a viewing of The Players with a cameo by local hardman Ethan Pringle. The event is free to all members and only $10 to non-members. -The bouldering area will be closed starting Wednesday and other sections of the gym will follow on Thursday thru the event. Check out the trailer for The Players: The Players Trailer from Brian Solano on Vimeo. For more information about the rules and regulations see the comp page. Come out and crank with some of the best boulderers in the Bay! Labels: mission cliffs, TBS5, The Players Friday, June 19, 2009Zumba Comes to Mission Cliffs: TONIGHT Join Marie on Friday, June 19th from 8-9pm at Mission Cliffs. Zumba fuses hypnotic Latin rhythms & easy to follow moves to create a dynamic fitness program that will blow you away. Zumba fanatics archive long term benefits while experiencing an absolute blast in one exhilarating hour of caloric-burning, body-energizing, awe-inspiring movements meant to engage & captivate for life! The routines feature interval training sessions where fast & slow rhythms, & resistance training are combined to tone & sculpt your body while burning fat. Add some Latin flavor & international zest into the mix & you've got Zumba. This is a free event for members. Labels: mission cliffs, Zumba Wednesday, June 10, 2009Mission High School visits Mission Cliffs A group of teenagers from all over the city (Bayview, Hunter’s Point, Portrero Hill, Mission, the Sunset, and Richmond Districts) visits a climbing wall for the first time. After learning to tie their figure 8 knots in class, they got to put their newfound skills to the challenge. Most were reluctant to climb, being afraid of heights, but with the help of some belayers and desk staff Sherry, the students were thoroughly enjoying themselves by the end of the day. Here are what some students had to say about their experience. Alejandro says, “I overcame my fear of heights and had a great time doing it.” “I also learned that someone’s always there to catch you.” –Jesvy Edgardo says he has already recommended it to his mother. “The experience really leveled the playing field for the students. Some students who have never had a chance to shine in the classroom, finally got a chance to do so while climbing” says Mr. Lau. This unique experience would not have been possible without the charitable contributions of Mission Cliffs, which is dedicated to giving back to the community. “As teens would say ‘I had a popping time, and this is not my last time going.’” -Mikesha Labels: Community Group, mission cliffs, Mission High School Thursday, May 21, 2009Carnaval Comes To San Francisco
Please note that Mission Cliffs will be affected by the street closures for the 2009 Carnaval event happening this weekend. Harrison Street and surrounding cross streets will be closed between 16th and 22nd for this weekend of festivities commencing Friday, May 23th at 10pm. Parking will be extremely limited.
Mission Cliffs will be CLOSED on Sunday, May 25th and will reopen on Monday, May 26th at 9am-7pm. Holiday rates and schedule will apply. Labels: Carnaval, mission cliffs, San Francisco Wednesday, May 13, 2009Hans Florine Slideshow @ Mission Cliffs Talk about an event you really shouldn't even consider missing out on! Clear your schedules for this Saturday, May 16th at 7:00 pm as our Mission Cliffs gym is hosting a slideshow presentation from none other than Hans Florine. As tickets are only $10 for members and $15 for non-members, you shouldn't even dream of missing out on this. Here's a bit more from our Mission Cliffs gym: Hans was on the cover of the SF Chronicle FOUR TIMES last year for breaking the speed record on The Nose route on El Capitan in Yosemite. Hans will share with you the story of his relationship with The Nose route over the past 21 years. And will show you a peek at the new Masters Of Stone VI DVD that features Yuji and Hans' record ascent. See more at speedclimb.com and mastersofstone.com $10 members $15 non members. Tickets available now at the front desk. Light refreshments served. --- www.HansFlorine.com Speed ExpertWe hope to see you there, trust me, this is something you won't want to miss out on. Labels: Events, Hans Florine, mission cliffs, Slideshow, Tickets Friday, May 1, 2009Mission Cliffs Yoga Workshop This Sunday! One more little note about a great event taking place this Sunday, May 3rd, at our Mission Cliffs location. We're hosting a Yin Yoga Workshop, Sunday, from 5:00 - 6:30 pm. Here is a bit more on what's going on, and why you shouldn't miss it: "Yin Yoga workshop at Mission Cliffs Hopefully we'll see you there! Labels: Events, mission cliffs, Sunday, Yoga Classes, Yoga Workshop Thursday, April 16, 2009Climbing and Yoga Injury Clinic @ Mission Cliffs Here's a quick heads up about an awesome free member event that is taking place this Sunday, April 19th from 2-4pm at our Mission Cliffs location. If you're in or around the area, we highly suggest dropping in for this clinic, you can learn a lot and I'm pretty sure everyone will benefit from it greatly. So, this Sunday, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm we will be having a Climbing and Yoga Injury Clinic that will help you learn exactly how to avoid common climbing and yoga related injuries. Check out the official info about the event: Focus on Lower Back, Hip and Knee Injuries Bottom line, if you're in the area, stop in and check it out. Injuries are annoying no matter when, where or why you get them, so the more you can learn to avoid them, the better off you'll be. Your body will thank you, and when you're able to spend more days doing the things you love, and less days recovering, you'll thank us. Labels: climbing, Clinic, event, Injury Prevention, mission cliffs, Yoga, Yoga Classes Wednesday, April 15, 2009Mission Cliffs Hosts Bridgemont High At the end of February, Mission Cliffs was lucky enough to play host to a great community group, and as you probably can guess by now, doing this is one of our favorite things. At any rate, our Mission Cliffs gym became the site of a surprise mystery event for Bridgemont High School and everyone had an amazing time. They were kind enough to send us over a testimonial for our site, and even some student quotes from the day they spent climbing all over the walls at MC. Here's what they all had to say: Bridgemont High School –Mystery Day @ Mission Cliffs Thanks again everyone involved, looks like it went great and we hope you include us in your mystery events in the future! Labels: Bridgemont High School, community, Community Group, Events, mission cliffs Wednesday, April 8, 2009Mission Cliffs Hosts Guadalupe Elementary School At our Mission Cliffs gym recently, we were lucky enough to play host to a great community group that actually has close ties to Touchstone Climbing. Kent Schmitz, a part-time course setter for us in the summer and employee of Touchstone Climbing for over a decade brought by his 5th Grade class from Guadalupe Elementary School to do some climbing and enjoy a day in the gym. Everything went great and it looks like a good time was had by all. Here's a bit of what Kent had to say about their day in Mission Cliffs: "Indoor Climbing is such a unique experience for the students of Guadalupe Elementary. Most of my students would have had difficult time experiencing climbing at Mission cliffs without your donation. Almost all of the students that Guadalupe Elementary serves qualify for the state’s free lunch program. Without your help, I think that indoor rock climbing would not be affordable for the families of my students. Head over and check out the photo gallery from their day. Thanks again everyone involved, we're looking forward to your next visit! Labels: Community Group, Events, Guadalupe Elementary School, kids, mission cliffs Tuesday, March 24, 2009No Men's Showers @ Mission Cliffs: 3/27 - 3/30 Heads up to all you Mission Cliffs climbers at fitness fanatics that just so happen to be men, this one is aimed right at you. Due to the fact that we will be completely re-tiling the entire Men's shower area, unfortunately the showers themselves will be completely unavailable from this Friday, March 27th at 10:00 am until Monday, March 30th. We are sorry for the inconvenience, but rest assured the few days of shower-less locker rooms will be well worth the hassle once the re-tiling is complete. Thanks for your understanding, and remember, March 27th through March 30th, No Showers at Mission Cliffs! Labels: members, mission cliffs, No Men's Showers, Showers Friday, March 6, 2009A Final Reminder!
Just wanted to throw everyone out there a quick reminder that there are still a few spots open for this Sunday's once in a lifetime event at our Mission Cliffs Gym!
In case you've already forgotten, which is highly unlikely, Ethan Pringle is teaching an Advanced Lead Clinic THIS Sunday and we have a few spots open. Sign up as soon as possible, because the spots won't be open long! Have a great weekend, and if you make it to the Clinic, have fun and we'll see you there! Labels: Clinic, Ethan Pringle, mission cliffs, Reminder Wednesday, March 4, 2009Mission Cliffs Hosts Bay Area Community Resources This is a great week for testimonials about all of our gyms, first we heard back from the Seneca Center about our Great Western Power Co. gym, and now today, we get a testimonial back from the Bay Area Community Resources (BACR) program that came to our Mission Cliffs gym with students from both the 4th and 5th grades. BACR is an organization that "promotes the healthy development of individuals, families and communities through direct services, volunteerism, and partnerships in the San Francisco Bay Area." They brought their kids and here is what they had to say: Mission Cliffs is fantastic for school groups. I was fortunate enough to bring 4th and 5th grade students here as a reward for homework completion and the students could not stop talking about the trip. I am always pleased to expose my students to activities which they may normally not encounter outside of school. The staff were very diligent in ensuring that the students understood the rules and also had fun in the process. I would definitely recommend this as a field trip for other school groups. Carlos Almendarez Project Director Thanks Carlos, and we hope to see you and your students back again in the near future. (image via BACRsf on Flickr) Labels: BACR, Charity, Children, Events, mission cliffs, Students, Testimonial, Youth Group Monday, March 2, 2009Ethan Pringle Clinic at Mission Cliffs THIS Sunday Empty your calendars for this Sunday everyone, because there is an event upcoming that you will not want to miss. We are lucky enough to announce that starting this Sunday, March 8 we are going to be hosting a workshop by one of the top climbers in the entire world, Ethan Pringle. That's right, exclusively at Mission Cliffs, we'll be having an "Advanced Lead Clinic" with Ethan Pringle. The Clinic will spread over 2 Sundays, March 8 and March 15 and will cover a great deal of information. Here's what you can expect: "Been leading 5.11s for awhile? Want to make the jump to the next level? In a small, group setting, learn how to push yourself to climb smart from one of the world's best, ETHAN PRINGLE. Gain the mental skill set and confidence necessary to break into 5.12. If you're interested, sign up now because space is limited to only 10 participants! It's going to cost $75 for all you Members out there, and $100 if you're not a member. Don't miss out! Labels: Advanced Lead, Clinic, Ethan Pringle, Events, mission cliffs Tuesday, February 24, 2009Mission Cliffs Hosts Mission Graduates Program Two weeks ago our Mission Cliffs gym was lucky enough to play host to a non-profit organization that has an important goal: increase the number of K-12 students in San Francisco's Mission District that are prepared for and complete a college education. A few weeks ago we hosted the Mission Graduates and just received back a letter of testimonial from their very own Kara Sigler. Check out some of the things they had to say after spending a day at Mission Cliffs learning the ropes, then testing them out: "Students set goals for themselves, accomplished them & chose if they wanted to take “one more step”. Highlights for students were reaching their goals, challenging themselves, and trying things that scared them. Many students said their favorite part of the day was also the most challenging. Students expressed enthusiasm and interest in more opportunities to climb. They were introduced to Girl Ventures." Thanks for the kind words, and thanks for using Mission Cliffs to be a part of your program. Keep up the great work and you're welcome back any time! Labels: Events, mission cliffs, Mission Graduates, Non-Profit Friday, February 20, 2009Art Exhibit At Mission Cliffs This Friday I wanted to give you all a heads up for an art exhibition that we currently have going on at our Mission Cliffs gym. It started Wednesday, and features photography from Leila Chirayath Janah.Here is a brief bio and Artists Statement, if you're in the area, take a few minutes to stop in and check out the photography. "Leila Chirayath Janah is a boxing enthusiast, amateur photographer, and former travel writer for the Let's Go guidebook series in Brazil, Southeast Asia, and Southern Africa. She has lived, worked, and traveled in over 50 countries. Leila currently resides in San Francisco and works at Samasource, a startup social enterprise that helps small technology firms in marginalized communities." Have a great weekend, don't forget to send us in some of your very own climbing videos. We want to see all of the great climbing our members are doing in and out of the gym.  Labels: Artist of the Month, Arts, Featured Artist, mission cliffs Friday, February 13, 2009Mission Cliffs Featured As Affordable Valentine's Gift As you're probably aware, tomorrow is Valentines Day. As such if you haven't done your shopping, planning or reservation making, you'd better get on it. If you're still short an idea, ABC's show "View from the Bay" had a segment recently called "Affordable Valentine's Gifts For Your Man," and our very own Mission Cliffs was featured as the number 2 gift on the list. That's right, the 2nd idea on the Gift List was our very own Mission Cliffs. Here's what they suggested: "2. Rock climbing day pass at Mission Cliff in San Francisco for $28.00. This would be a really fun and adventurous thing to do with your guy." Thanks for the nod ABC and "View from the Bay." Head over and check out the video, maybe you can pick up a few other good ideas. (image via ydnar.vox.com)  Labels: mission cliffs, The View from the Bay, Valentine's Day Tuesday, January 27, 2009Mission Cliffs Featured in "The View from the Bay" Mission Cliff was just featured on a popular San Francisco television show "The View from the Bay" that airs on the local ABC channel. Looks like they got some great footage, some great interviews and it's nice to see Mission Cliffs getting the recognition it deserves.Those on the show sent over Leigh Glaser to Mission Cliffs and let her do a little bit of climbing and filming. The segment highlighted not only our climbing and fitness programs, but also our kids programs, birthday parties and after-school camps. The video is entertaining, so head over and check it out. Thanks again all of you on "The View from the Bay," it was great to see this. They also had a bit of information I thought I'd relay for any and all of you interested in the after-school climbing we offer: After School Climbing Labels: climbing, mission cliffs, Television, The View from the Bay, Touchstone Climbing Wednesday, January 7, 2009Mission Cliffs Hosting Beautiful Art Exhibition Here comes an awesome heads up for all of you around the Mission Cliffs area: We have an amazing Art Exhibition for Marie-José Durquet showing right NOW!. Prepare yourselves to see some amazing photography from Haiti from an amazingly talented photographer.I had a chance to go through the portfolio on the artist's website, and I was absolutely blown away. We're lucky enough to be graced with an entire exhibition at our Mission Cliffs gym, and I urge each and every one of you to stop in, check it out and learn a whole lot about something you might not have known anything about. The photographs are arresting, beautiful, and will stay with you. Here is an Artists Statement, to give you a bit more information: I traveled to Haiti 4 times between 2003 and 2006, and stayed at the Albert Schweitzer Hospital with my family. I did a photo-documentary project at the hospital focusing on patients and services provided there. I also pursued my own interests in documenting the art (heavily influenced by Vodou) and people in the surrounding community. I have long been interested in Haiti for the artistic and political/historical contributions it has made to the world. Haiti is or has been at the epicenter of revolution, slavery, surrealism, the colonization of the new world, deforestation, and issues regarding health care and hunger. It was eye-opening to experience this country, which is as close to Africa as one can get in this hemisphere. Haiti is a place where things change very quickly, where life is precarious but where time, in some ways, has stood still. Haiti truly is, as Herbert Gold's book suggests, "The Best Nightmare on Earth".  So, head over, check it out. You know, I've always thought that Art & Fitness are perfect partners. This just proves me right!  Labels: Arts, Events, Featured Artist, Haiti, mission cliffs Friday, December 12, 2008TBS tonight in San Francisco.Friday, November 28, 2008Climbing Clip of the Week: One of Our Own!!
Hello and here's hoping that your belly is stuffed full with all of yesterday's goodies. Hopefully you had an amazing Thanksgiving, and that you don't have to go ANYWHERE to work this fine "Black Friday!" For your viewing pleasure and so you don't have to strain yourself with any reading in the haze of all that turkey, we have an awesome, and somewhat "personal" Climbing Clip of the Week this Friday!
That's right, this week we have a former Mission Cliffs climber, Kevin St. Laurent, doing a first ascent of a V2 Boulder problem in Tintamarre Point. This little video was shot while he was sailing the Caribbean last year. Wow, could we be any more jealous right now?! Without further ado, enjoy this beauty:  Labels: Black Friday, Caribbean, Climbing Clip of the Week, Climbing Movie, Kevin St. Laurent, mission cliffs, Thanksgiving Wednesday, October 1, 2008Reel Rock Tour The REEL ROCK tour will be swinging by the bay area for four days in October. Walnut Creek is the first to be visited by the tour on October 1st, the show will be at the Pyramid Brewery. On October 9th the tour will stop by the Victoria Theater in San Francisco and on October 15th & 16th, the tour will stop in Berkeley at the Pyramid Brewery. All shows times are 8pm. The third annual REEL ROCK Film Tour, launching September 10th in Boulder, CO delivers the year's most exciting climbing and adventure films to audiences in over 80 cities around the world. More than just film screenings, REEL ROCK shows are festive events where climbers and outdoors lovers gather to celebrate their shared passion for adventure. Presented by Windstopper and The North Face, REEL ROCK events feature the latest releases from the award-winning filmmakers at Sender Films and Big Up Productions, plus new thrilling short films, gear giveaways, appearances by top climbers, and fundraising for local and national non-profit organizations. For the first time in 2008, aspiring producers are encouraged to submit their best three-minute films to The REEL ROCK Filmmaking Competition. Entries will be posted online for public voting, and two winner will rake in thousands of dollars worth of prizes, plus see their films on the big screen as part of the REEL ROCK tour. For more information check out: http://www.reelrocktour.com/ Labels: Berkeley Ironworks, climbing, mission cliffs, REEL ROCK TOUR Friday, September 26, 2008TRS Finale at Mission Cliffs: TONIGHT!Friday, September 19, 2008No Showers at Mission Cliffs on Sept. 20th & 21st.
Showers will not be available at Mission Cliffs on the weekend of Sept. 20th & 21st. We will be sealing the floor as part of our ongoing renovation of the bathrooms.
Thanks for your understanding & patience as we near the end of our remodel. Labels: mission cliffs Thursday, September 18, 2008Alaska This summer, Kelly McFarling took time off from Mission Cliffs to lead a wilderness trip for teenagers in the Talkeetna Mountain range of Alaska. She has been working for the outdoor adventure company Moondance Adventures, for the past four summers, and has been fortunate to lead trips all over the United States. The Alaska Trip this summer consisted of a 12 day backcountry alpine section that ended by rafting out on the Chikaloon River, and then spending 6 days kayaking the Prince William Sound. She was leading a group of 16-18 year olds from all over the United States. Alaska was an amazing experience for both her and her group, and Kelly hopes to continue working with teenagers, especially in backcountry settings.Labels: mission cliffs, staff Friday, August 1, 2008Yoga for Detox Mission Cliffs Sunday Aug. 3rd 10:30am-noon Cost: $20 Detoxification is essential to maintaining a healthy body and clear mind. In this Vinyasa flow class, we will twist and sweat in order to activate the body’s natural cleansing abilities. Appropriate for students experienced with vinyasa flow yoga. Please note that registration for this class is through missioncliffsyoga@gmail.com only or at the door. Please bring your cash donation of $20 to the class. All proceeds from this class will go to City Slicker Farms. www.cityslickerfarms.org Labels: event, fitness, mission cliffs, Yoga Wednesday, July 9, 2008Perfecto Perfecto the Movie on tour in San Francisco in the Mission District Don't miss Perfecto the Movie at the Victoria Theatre this coming Thursday night, July 10th at 8pm. Hosted by Mike Call, Boone Speed, and Touchstone's Ethan Pringle. This movie is about Mallorca and deep water soloing. Buy your tickets NOW at Mission Cliffs and save $. Tickets at the door $12 and $10 in advanced. Labels: climbing, Climbing Movie, Ethan Pringle, event, mission cliffs Thursday, July 3, 2008Yoga Flow for Detox at Mission Cliffs Join Kate this coming Sunday, July 6th from 10am-Noon for this FREE MEMBER EVENTDetoxification is essential to maintaining a healthy body and a clear mind. In this vinyasa flow class we will twist and sweat in order to activate the body's natural cleansing abilities. Appropriate for all students with a basic knowledge of vinyasa flow. Labels: fitness, mission cliffs, Yoga Friday, June 6, 2008Free Yoga Workshop at Mission Cliffs Yoga Workshop for Members at Mission Cliffs Saturday, June 7th @ 1pmJoin us at Mission Cliffs for a Pranayama workshop with Ian on Saturday, June 7th at 1pm. Out of breath? Feeling like you really need to relax? Many of us run around during the day taking shallow breaths. Let the ancient techniques of yogic breathing (pranayama) inform your daily breath. Increase the oxygen in the body & relax the mind. Often focus on the breath naturally leads to concentration & meditation. FREE MEMBER EVENT! Labels: fitness, mission cliffs, Yoga Tuesday, May 27, 2008Rock Climbing Summer Camps Tired of your little monkey climbing all over the house? Then sign them up for a week of rock climbing. Summer camps are help at Berkeley Ironworks, San Francisco's Mission Cliffs, Oakland's Great Western Power Company, Concord's Diablo Rock Gym, or Sacramento's Pipeworks. Camps usually run M-F from 9am to noon beginning in June and running through August. Check with your local gym for times and specific details. Campers will learn how to climb and belay in a supportive, fun, and safe environment. They will also try their hand at rappelling, ascending, slack-lining and playing many climbing games. Rock climbing emphasizes life skills such as confidence-building, self-esteem and goal-setting and is a great way to get kids to be active. Safety and having fun are our top priorities. Sign your kids up today! Labels: Berkeley Ironworks, climbing, concord, Diablo Rock Gym, Great Western Power Co., kids, mission cliffs, oakland, Sacramento Pipeworks Tuesday, May 6, 2008Granddude On May 1st, former Mission Cliffs & Touchstone Concord employee Avery McClenahan gave birth to her first child. 'Berkeley Vector' was born at 2:30pm and both mother and child are doing well and home from the hospital. Avery is in her final weeks at UC Berkeley where she is double majoring in economics and art history.For those who may not know Avery, she is the daughter of head route setter Craig McClenahan. This is Craig's first grandchild but don't try and call him 'grandfather.' When asked, Craig said he is not a granddad but rather 'Granddude.' All of us at Touchstone wish Avery and Berkeley all the best, as well as a huge congratulations to Craig on becoming a 'Granddude.' Labels: concord, Craig McClenahan, Diablo Rock Gym, mission cliffs, staff Wednesday, April 30, 2008Konichiwa from Japan Staff member Frank Faraguna's daughter Carla, a former Mission Cliffs belay staffer is pictured climbing strong on an indoor wall in Tokai, Japan located in Ibaraki prefecture . The 50' wall is part of a sports club, and while she did have fun, she let us know that she missed the walls at Mission Cliffs. If you look closely, you can see that Carla is a safe climber, sporting her Touchstone Climbing belay card. Way to represent! Carla will soon complete her first year teaching english to middle and high school students with the Japan Exchange and Teaching program (JET) this summer, and has plans to spend another year teaching abroad. Ask Frank about his daughter, and he'll start glowing like a firefly, as he is so proud of her. He's hoping to visit her this summer, and hearing his blonde haired, blue eyed daughter speak fluent Japanese. "It's a kick", says Frank. Labels: mission cliffs, staff Wednesday, April 16, 2008TRS Wants YOU!!! It is once again time to get out your rope, tie in and climb. Touchstone Climbing is pleased to bring back the Touchstone Roped Series for its third year. This will be a series of five Roped Climbing comps that will be held on Friday evenings, one at all five of the Touchstone locations. All events will include a red point roped comp as well as refreshments, games and prizes. Points will be awarded for each comp with overall winners being announced after the final comp. The first event will be held Touchstone's newest gym, the Great Western Power Co. in Oakland on May 16th. There will be a comp each month for the following five months, with the finale coming in September at Mission Cliffs in San Francisco.May 16th G.W.P.C June 13th Diablo Rock Gym July 11th Berkeley Ironworks August 22nd Sacramento Pipeworks September 26th Mission Cliffs All comps will be from 6pm to 10pm and FREE FOR MEMBERS! Labels: Berkeley Ironworks, climbing, comps, concord, Diablo Rock Gym, Great Western Power Co., mission cliffs, oakland, Sacramento Pipeworks, Touchstone Roped Series Powered by: |
 |
ArchivesIf you are looking for our old newsletters, check out the newsletter archive. Here you will find Touchstone newsletters dating back to May 2004. 
This widget will bring all the latest news headlines from Touchstone Climbing to your dashboard. 
Touchstone News is available through a RSS feed, which use a XML to deliver the latest news items to your desktop or Web browser.    
|
Copyright © Touchstone Climbing, Inc.; All rights reserved. |
||
