A member of the American Bar Association, Dennis John Olmstead is an experienced tax attorney who has worked as Head of Tax and a consultant capacity for Bridgewater Associates in Westport, Connecticut, since 2011. He worked as head of tax and shareholder services for the company from 2011 to 2019. When he isn't working, Dennis John Olmstead enjoys hiking.
The COVID-19 pandemic has spurred a significant increase in hiking interest in the US, and particularly in Connecticut. According to the Connecticut Trail Census, there was a 77 percent average use increase at 13 multi-use trails in March 2020 compared to March 2019. This trend continued throughout the summer and into the fall. The organization tracked more than 300,000 activities on participating trails in September 2020, compared to only 211,304 activities in September 2019.
In March 2021, the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Parks Division launched the 2021 Sky's the Limit Hiking Challenge to further promote the exploration of the state's parks and multi-use trails. The challenge, which first began in 2015, incorporates 20 designated locations including Dinosaur State Park, Hammonasset Beach State Park, and Osbornedale State Park. Those who hike in each of these locations are eligible to win one of 50 hand-carved hiking staffs. Individuals who complete hikes in at least 15 locations can receive a certificate and medallion.
