The 17th annual Rhode Island Men's Gathering will be held at the University of Rhode Island's W. Alton Jones Campus from Feb. 20 to 22. The weekend is slated as a winter getaway for men from different walks of life to gather in a safe, non-competitive, non-religious, trusting environment to relax and explore men's issues. The entire weekend is drug and alcohol free.

An offshoot of the national men's movement, the gathering will offer group activities, participant-led workshops and recreational opportunities in a relaxing atmosphere. The gathering will include workshop topics such as Listening Skills, Balancing Work and Family, Men's Health, Friendship and Trust, Crafts, Tai Chi and Cooking. Also included are group building and trust activities, a sweat lodge, group games, drumming sessions, an afternoon hike and a talent show.

According to Ralph Kreiser, one of the weekend's organizers, men don't often find the time to talk with other men about the events in their lives, whether they are trivial or significant.

"Our intention has been simply to get men of varying ages and backgrounds together in a woodland setting. The format of the weekend is pretty laid back and men repeatedly comment on how they appreciate the chance to make connections with other men," Kreiser said.

The weekend is facilitated and organized by a committee of participants. The W. Alton Jones Campus is 2,300 acres and offers a quiet setting of forests, ponds, fields and streams with miles of hiking trails. Fees range from $90 to $140 for the weekend. Included are meals and lodging in bunk style cabins from Friday at 6:30 p.m. to Sunday at 2 p.m. About 50 men are expected to attend. For a brochure or more information, contact www.rigm.org or call Arthur Snow at 737-9298 between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m.