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A Social Club For Snow Skiers and Sports Enthusiasts
February 2003
Texas Ski Council Member
Contents
Date and time: Tuesday, February 11, 2003, 7 - 9 P.M.
Location: Canyon Cafe 701 S Cap of Texas HWY,
329-0400Program: Valentines's Party!!
$5 admission - cash bar
"T
WO GREAT TRIPS, TOO MUCH FUN!"The Splendor of Snowbasin
by Ellen Zimmermann, Trip Chair
It was a great New Year’s celebration for 33 Austin skiers in Ogden, Utah. We not only had a delicious dinner together at the Bistro, but we also drank champagne (ginger ale for the kids) and ate yummy cheesecake for dessert, and we had a fantastic week of skiing Snowbasin and Powder Mountain.
Thirty of us flew United (even though it’s gone bankrupt) and three more followed on their own. The Ben Lomond Hotel, where the Club has stayed for the past two years, also declared bankruptcy, so we stayed at the brand new Crowne Plaza Hotel. The flight was smooth, no delays or problems. In fact, things worked out such that
Kathy Collins, Linda Raymer, PerriAngela Wickham, Robin Braun and her son Bobby Kaspar decided to get bumped for a free round trip ticket (they better use it soon!), and arrived in Ogden just hours after us. The Crowne Plaza Hotel treated us very well, providing a breakfast and nightly vouchers for drinks at the Bar. In Utah strict rules exist regarding drinking and the bartender scolded me for taking my drink into the lobby. Of course, later that night and for the rest of the week he let all the Austin Skiers drink in the lobby anyway.Snowbasin had lots of fresh snow and mostly good weather, so most of us skied several days. There was great skiing for everyone from beginner to intermediate and even some expert runs like Wildflower, the Women’s Olympic run, for top notch skier, Missy Hellendale. Tom and Ellen Zimmermann, Shari Hembree, Patty Stephens, Robin Braun, Bobby Kaspar, Kathy Collins, Linda Raymer, and PerriAngela Wickham went into Salt Lake City on Sunday morning and were privileged to hear the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. They were exquisite(!) and the Christmas decorations made the setting all the more spectacular. We had a wonderful day touring Temple Square, visiting the home of Brigham Young, watching a Legacy movie about the Mormons’ history, shopping at a cool outside mall, having lunch, and finally enjoying the lovely Christmas lights of Temple Square - quite a full day. While we were off touring, the rest of the gang went over to Powder Mountain where it was snowing. Unfortunately, after just being there just a few minutes, the power went out and several people were stuck on the lifts; Kelly Rodgers was suspended on a chair for 40 minutes! But she said she had a great time regardless. The power remained on at the Ski school area so several Austin Skiers spent the day there having fun. One of our new Austin Skiers members, Kelly Rodgers felt like one of the "boarder dudes" when she got run over by a boarder. As she picked herself up off the slope, he apologized, saying "Sorry, dude". At least he was a polite "dude" to our new member! Kelly’s son, John Atkins, also had some action at the first annual Jell-o Drop. What’s that? Well, on New Year’s Eve, 30 gallons of green Jell-o (a Utah favorite), were dropped from a cherry picker high above the crowd. Several on looking Austin Skiers attempted to get the crowd to join in with a chant of JELLO, JELLO, JELLO but the crowd just started throwing Jell-O at each other. An experience not to be missed, the first Jell-O drop, a part of Last Night celebration in Ogden.
On the last day of skiing Kevin and Matt Masters headed up to the Strawberry Express lift. This section is often closed due to high winds and poor visibility. When they reached the top of the lift the operator said that it was now closed because of dangerous weather conditions. Kevin and Matt met two kids at the top who were eyeing the trail with obvious concern. Since Matt had been there before he went first and the strongest skier went at the end of the line to herd up any stragglers. The wind was 60-80 miles an hour and you couldn’t see your hand in front of your face! Together they picked up another stranded skier and they all made it back to base safely; all part of the adventure of skiing. We’re proud of our father and son team of rescuers! At the end of our week’s stay, several hundred teenagers checked into our hotel and according to Tom Camardo the lobby turned into an MTV audition. The kids proceeded to play so hard with the elevator buttons that the management finally shut down our two elevators. Poor Tom had to hike up eight floors after a day of skiing and a few glasses of champagne. Happy New Year! Oh well, at our lovely New Year’s Eve dinner, sweet young Leah Swaim received a kiss from Mom, Missy Hellendale and passed it along to Tom Zimmermann. Well Tom passed it along to me and before you knew it, a New Year’s kiss was passed along to two tables of 25 Austin Skiers. I hear that when the kiss got to Casy Keeling, she turned the color of the closed sign on the Strawberry Express. Not a bad way to end the trip (and begin the year!). Happy 2003 from all of us on the Snowbasin trip!
"Whistling" A Happy Tune In Canada!
by Rainer Vanoni, Trip Chair
Well, the long-awaited day finally arrived, and on January 4, 2003, 40 Austin Skiers, including eleven month old
Hailey Hoffmann, descended on Bergstrom Airport to board our United flight to Denver. All went smoothly through check-in and baggage screening, and soon we were off! Upon prompt arrival in Denver and a short walk, we were off again – this time to Vancouver, British Columbia. Unfortunately, no trip is perfect; arriving in Vancouver at 1 p.m. (3 p.m. Austin time), stomachs started to growl, and there were no box lunches to feed the troops (! what can you expect from a volunteer, first time trip chair?). Burger King came to the rescue, and never tasted better, and thank goodness, they accepted U.S. currency, and the bus to Whistler was ready to roll. The two hour drive through the Pacific Ranges along an inlet was awesome and provided some photo ops at sunset. Upon arriving at Whistler rumors turned into reality; the weather was misty and cloudy, with occasional rain. After some initial disappointments, like small bedrooms (some with bunkbeds), little room to store underwear, and a ski rental snafu, things began to look up after a good night’s sleep.Breakfasts in the lobby gave us a good start every morning, in addition to being greeted by Assistant Chair Calvin Fujii’s excellent coverage of the day’s scheduled events. As for nighttime, there was no cozy private bar in the Mariott Residence Inn. Not to worry, the daily gathering at the hot tub made up for it. Since it was outdoors, you could even get a little loud or let off some steam (literally!). At first participants came sheepishly with a beer half hidden by towel. That degenerated quickly to six packs, and culminated into a cook pot complete with ladle to dish out ample Margaritas furnished by Kevin Juhl, with help from Tommy Emmons and Jack Carasso. An anonymous quote: "The only thing that went faster than Lou Horwitz on skis were the Margaritas at the hot tub".
After a good first day of skiing for many, on Sunday night a TSC welcome party Sunday evening proved to be a vegetarian delight (to get a piece of chicken was not easy!), but it did give us a chance to visit with other clubs and party. Evening dining on following nights was usually intimate, by room or suite mates. I do remember, vaguely, one evening, someone mentioned "Sushi Bar" in the hot tub. Next thing, a mob of 10 was on its way via shuttle. First stop was not quite right, nor to the liking of our expert leader, Calvin. Second stop was a hit with Jack & Kim Carasso, Ken Jacquin, Heather Lucier, Alan Stanley, Rob Smith, Jim Howalt, Kevin Juhl ("never ever") and yours truly. I sure wished I had a fork, would have been a lot easier, but more expensive. Of course, on Wednesday night, it was time to turn to a Club tradition: to have a party during midweek. After much agonizing, Rainer noticed two big cooking pots in the kitchen cabinet. The light bulb came on - Chicken and Rice, known by some as "Soul Food". Unfortunately we were unable to use the lobby, "has to be catered" was the response. No way could our budget handle that with beer and wine. With contributions from our Eastern contingent MaryAnn Tikijian chopping garlic and Tommy Emmons contributing a half case of beer, we pulled it off. Entertainment was provided by room 303; this meant Kevin Juhl in cool shades and groomed in a spiked hair style by Heather Lucier, flanked by soon-tobe husband Alan Stanley, and Rob Smith. To this day I have not figured out whether the chicken dish was good or not enough of it, there was nothing left in either pots. Again, no trip is perfect!
As promised, back to skiing… On the second day Jim Howalt, Wendy Buck, and Neil and Sherri Martin set out to conquer Whistler Mountain. After a short uphill walk, a traverse, and a short trail run, they boarded one of two gondolas, only to realize too late that they were on their way to the top of Blackcomb Mountain! Two more gondola rides, some finger pointing, and 45 minutes elapsing, and they were finally ready to ski (oh well, engineers!). Otherwise, there was ample snow, especially at the top of both mountains, even some powder in 7th Heaven, early in the week. Popular runs were Symphony Bowl, the Saddle and Horstmann glacier (where the weather turned sunny!). And of course, no TSC trip is complete without races. Some of us were fortunate enough to get our skis tuned by a master, Calvin Fujii. He worked until 11p.m., with Wendy Buck falling asleep on the couch, wishing we all would clear out of her condo. Wednesday morning 26 Austin Skiers gathered at the Pontiac Race Center under the able guidance of our race director, Lou. Race times and handicaps were good enough to capture Gold for Calvin Fujii, Lou Horwitz and Rainer Vanoni. (at my age it’s Gold if I’m still standing at the finish line!). Silvers went to Harry Tikijian, Ernest Olson, Thomas Thrams, Wendy Buck, Sherri Martin, and Neil Martin. Bronzes were mined by Rob Smith, Doug Shows, Berni Ross and Kevin Juhl. After a group photo, Lou picked six of us to race in the Individual Races: Wendy, Lou, Calvin, Harry, Jim Howalt and Rainer. The course, known as the Upper Dave Murry Downhill, was somewhat intimidating. But we all finished two runs, with Lou capturing the Gold Medal in the Open Men’s Division with a combined time of 80.83 seconds, the fastest time and 4.7 seconds faster than the Silver Medal winner! Harry received the Bronze in the Super Senior Division. Thanks to a "computer glitch"?? Wendy placed 4th instead of 3rd, just out of the bronze (No! Broken fingernails and the superglue, provided by the front desk for repairs, had nothing to do with it!).
One of the nice things about a Whistler trip is that it has a lot of "to-do’s" for the less-than-skiing crowd. In fact, a few of the group took in a day trip to Vancouver. This trip was much enjoyed by Rebecca Douglass, daughter Alison Hoffmann, husband Glen Hoffmann, and Susan Ross. Joining the group at the airport to fly back home after their day at Vancouver were Bill Roland, Stephanie Roberts, Elinor Stephens, Nouzha Swimelar and Rich Elmer. Other than bruises and aching muscles, no one was hurt seriously. All in all, this was a great week and we all had just too much fun. Thanks to all the members for making this trip what it was – GREAT!
The ski season is well underway and our trips have been outstanding. Most trip leaders have reported good snow conditions that the members really enjoyed themselves. Looks like our February destinations either have gotten, or will be getting, some good dumps. Thanks again to all our volunteer trip leaders and our VP Trips, Neil Martin.
Change is inevitable in our world and our Club administration is no exception. Jobs and family/personal situations shift, and our non-profit, all volunteer organization must have members willing to step forward each year and assume leadership roles. As that long ago recruiting poster said "We Need You". We are beginning the process of collecting nominations for next year's Executive Committee, so please consider volunteering. Contact me (preferably by e-mail, see p.10) if you are interested in serving or have questions. The pay may be nothing (you do get some small trip perks!), but the personal satisfaction and the new friends you'll make are outstanding. Get involved, meet fellow skiers, influence the operation of the Club, and have some fun in the process. Act soon, though. Our Nominating Committee needs to finalize their recommendations by mid-March. On a related subject, don't pass up a great opportunity to attend or help with the TSC Bid Fest April 4-6 in San Antonio. See my article on p. 7 for more information.
With the new "information technology", keeping up on news about skiing, travel, club operations, state and local organizations, etc., can become almost overwhelming. Sources such as the Texas Ski Council, the National Federation of Ski Councils, the National Ski Club Newsletter, industry newsletters and magazines, plus the Internet, provide quite a lot of facts and advice that I review each month to ensure that relevant information is not overlooked. Because of cost and volunteer time constraints, we can't pass along everything in our newsletter so, from time to time, I'll begin to yield this space to other sources in order to ensure you are well informed about ongoing Club activities and items of general interest. I'm sure you'll enjoy the fresh perspectives.
See you at the Valentines party on February 11, at the Canyon Café, and don't forget you could win a free year's membership! See p. 7 for details.
Doug Jordan - Austin Skiers President
Austin Skiers 2002 - 2003 Trips
Editor's note: Although some trips are full or close to full, please contact the trip chair for all trips in which you are interested as spaces are available, or can become so, at any time. Do not rule out any trip before checking!
Jackson Hole, Wyoming February 15-22 (TSC Winter Shootout)
Trip Chair: Lou Horwitz 250-9474 e-mail: jacksonholetrip@austinskiers.org
Jackson Hole always comes up high in our annual surveys, and this year was no exception. With its challenging, beautiful Grand Teton terrain, access to Yellowstone, and quaint ranching culture, "the Hole" keeps us coming back! This time it's with the TSC, with all the usual parties, activities, races, and things you love. Jackson Hole's huge 4,100 feet of vertical drop provides over 400 inches of snow per year, which you'll need to experience Rendezvous Mountain's gut-wrenching chutes, bowls, couloirs (have you done Corbet's?), glades and other world-famous expert terrain, or challenge yourself on the much longer than usual intermediate runs on Rendezvous and the gentler Apres Vous mountain. And this year, a nice treat - we're staying at the resort on the mountain, an easy 20 minute bus access into the Town (and famous Silver Dollar Bar and all the shopping, dining, and exploring you can "round up!"), so we're practically ski-in, ski-out! There's just no better challenge for any level of skier than Jackson Hole, so join us for what's always a memorable time in Wyoming's premier resort!
Approximate price: (click here)
Heavenly/Lake Tahoe February 22-March 1
Trip Chair: Marcia Honeycutt 288-8462 e-mail: heavenlytrip@austinskiers.org
North America's largest single mountain resort, Heavenly's nine peaks and two valleys split the Nevada-California border and offer the best of both. Don't even think about covering Heavenly's massive 5,200 acres of 79 trails, just do your best! After toasting the day at one of Heavenly's three base lodges, go into Nevada's South Lake Tahoe for the casinos and Vegas-style buffets. Home for the week is the quaint 2/2 Forest Inn condos, just a 1 to 5 minute walk to either the new Gondola or the casinos, where the action never stops. And, as usual, we'll be looking to sample a few other magnificent Tahoe area resorts, interest permitting Squaw Valley, Kirkwood, Alpine Meadows, or another deep snow paradise! But wait, there's more you can also take the scenic Tahoe Queen boat ride, snowmobile, rent a dogsled, even ride a Harley, among South Lake Tahoe's numerous non-ski activities! So join us and go for it all at Heavenly it's a sure bet!
Approximate price: (click here)
Sun Valley, Idaho March 8-15 (AISD Spring Break)
Trip Chair: Tom Zimmermann 301-5838 e-mail: sunvalleytrip@austinskiers.org
Our recent trips to Sun Valley have been so enjoyable that we're going there for Spring Break 2003! Sun Valley is a place of firsts it was the first destination ski resort in the U.S. (1936), and soon became the first winter stop for the Hollywood elite in the 40's and 50's. After a brief period of decline in the '60's it was once again restored to its former glory, so that by the mid-90's Sun Valley, having regained its original luster and charm, was voted SKI magazine's #1 resort in 2000. Located in the Sawtooth Range, Sun Valley boasts two mountains: Bald Mountain's 2000+ acres stretched over 3,400 vertical feet provide for serious skiing, and Dollar Mountain's excellent learning terrain is among the best anywhere. We'll be staying at the Warm Springs base in the Prospector Condos; this is near the shuttle stop to the Challenger quad, which will whisk you up Bald Mountain in a short 10 minutes. Each of our 2 and 3 bedroom condos offer fireplaces and mountain views. Amenities include heated swimming pool with Jacuzzi jets, sauna and on-site laundry facilities. Shuttle service to Dollar Mountain, Sun Valley, Elkhorn and downtown Ketchum is available from 7:30 a.m. to midnight via the Ketchum and Area Rapid Transit (KART). So don't be last come to experience Sun Valley's many firsts!
Approximate price: (click here)
Québec, Canada March 15-22 (TSC Final Showdown)
Trip Chair: Julia Buchanan 257-7611 e-mail: quebectrip@austinskiers.org
Want to go to France without a long overseas flight? As the only fortified city in North America, Québec City has sat at the crossroads of colonial history, attracting visitors (and attackers!) since it was founded by Samuel de Champlain in 1608. Québec City is located on a high, scenic bluff above the St. Lawrence River from atop Cape Diamant. Greater Québec City comprises five historic areas with buildings representing four centuries of architectural history and the influences of Aboriginal, French and English you can experience the heart of French culture and language seasoned with other heritages. And we'll get a great view as we're flying directly into Québec City no long bus rides! There are just too many to-do's to mention here; of course there's skiing - three ski areas within 30 minutes of downtown: Mont-Sainte-Anne, Station touristique Stoneham and Le Massiff (plus over 30 cross country ski centers in the city). Beyond this, there's enough to keep you busy for a lifetime, never mind a week! You can tour and shop the oldest commercial district in North America (Petit-Champlain), or visit the Place Royale, the Île d'Orléans, the colonial Citadel, or the Old Port; you'll find premier shopping, museums, galleries, artisans' workshops, renowned designers' boutiques, and over 1,000 restaurants and exotic food shops everywhere. You can even take in all these sites in from your 5-star window - the TSC is hosting its Final Showdown from the fabulous, historic 19th century Chateau Frontenac, high on a scenic bluff; you'll feel like royalty with this treatment! And, we'll have several excursions, including one to Montreal. Come see what the English and French found worth going to war over in the 1750's join us for a French-flavored taste of Canada in Québec!
Approximate price: (click here)
Costa Rica (TSC Summer Expedition) - June 27(Friday) to July 5, 2003
Trip Chair: Cindy Berry 248-9544 e-mail: costaricatrip@austinskiers.org
Austin Skiers first-time exclusive! Our first formal trip to Central America features the best of the tropical rain forest, beaches, hot springs, and eclectic and quaint shopping. Costa Rica's reputation as a tourist and residential destination has exploded in the past few years come see what makes it so great! The first night we will be in San Jose at the Barcelo San Jose Hotel Casino. Then we'll be based for the next four nights in the fabulous Hotel Mariposa in Quepos/Manuel Antonio on the mid-Pacific Coast. The hotel is integrated in the rainforest hillside overlooking the Pacific and Manuel Antonio National Park, with a short walk to the village of Quepos' many restaurants and shops. Later that week, we'll move to the Lake Arenal /La Fortuna Region in the Northern Zone, where our stay in the Tabacon Resort features a view of Volcan Arenal and Lake Arenal. The thermal hot springs and mineral pools are within the resort making it a destination in itself; in addition, the Iskandria Spa offers a variety of relaxing treatments. Optional excursions include rafting, kayaking, outrigger canoeing, rainforest tours, clout forest (above the canopy) tours, sport fishing, and hiking, to name a few). The final price will be firmed up in September and includes; air, lodging and ground transportation. So are you ready for a grand time, Latin American style? Vamanos a Costa Rica!! Price includes a TSC dinner and continental breakfest.
Approximate price: (click here)
Join Us at This Year's Bid Fest, April 4-6
by
Doug Jordan, President
Want to have a say in our trips next year? Want to learn more about the Texas Ski Council and their trip selection process? Or maybe you just want to attend a fun party on Saturday night?
If "yes" to any or all of these, then join us at the TSC Bid Fest, April 4-6 at the Holiday Inn Riverwalk in San Antonio. Registration cost is $45 if registration is received by March 3 and $55 thereafter. The fee covers a welcome party on Friday night, lunch and dinner Saturday, a silent auction, and dancing with a dj after the dinner on Saturday (lodging is not included should you wish to stay overnight). Your registration also allows admittance to the meeting room to hear presentations by resorts bidding for the TSC trips next year. These are always entertaining; one year a resort even brought a marching band! In addition, on Saturday afternoon you can browse the exhibit area to meet with the representatives and view displays by ski resorts and others in the travel industry. The registration form can be found on our website, www.austinskiers.org, or by postal mail if you call the Club hotline, 335-3662, and leave a message requesting a copy; you can also e-mail me at president@austinskiers.org. Remember, you don't have to be a Club officer or volunteer to attend, all members are welcome to join the fun.
Also, we need your help to assist with the registration of the vendors when they arrive on Friday evening and Saturday morning. If you are planning to attend and are willing to help out, please contact Nancy Roth.
We Need Your Trip Planning Help (Again!)
Gary Roth, our Trip Planning V.P., is requesting your help one last time. We need your input in one area, and possibly another, to help best plan next year's slate of trips. First, please take the time if you have Web access to fill out our Trips Survey. Gary would really like to have the data submitted online if you can and it only takes a few minutes! Simply go to our Web site www.austinskiers.org and look for the Survey link. If you don't have Web access, contact Gary and he'll make sure you get a copy. We need to finish this survey within the next week or two, before trip planning begins in January. Thanks!
The other are a few of you might be interested in is serving on this year's Trip Planning Committee. This committee is always essential to researching and providing the Club with the best deals to favorite destinations. The committee will begin meeting in January, and probably about 3-4 times more until May to discuss, plan, and research our trip destinations for next year; a small bit of independent work is expected. Ever wanted to have a say on where we go and what's included? Now's your chance!
For further info on either of these opportunities, contact Gary at tripplanning@austinskiers.org
Happy Hour - Filling Station, Barton Springs Rd.
Feb. 11 Monthly meeting at Canyon Café(Valentine's party)
Feb. 20 post-happy hour outing to Westlake H.S. play "Oklahoma!"
Feb. 23 ice skating afternoon at Chaparral Ice Rink
Feb. 28 Blind Test Wine Tasting at Cindy Berry's
Happy Hour - Maudie's Milagro in Davenport Village
Mar. 11 Monthly meeting at Sail and Ski, Research Blvd.
Mar. 23 Gospel Brunch at Threadgill's
May 2-4 Spring Campout at Inks Lake (details in future issues).
For questions on Special Activities, contact Cindy Berry, Activities V.P. at activities@austinskiers.org
Austin Skiers supports TSC and our own sponsors:
We also continue to support our advertising sponsors in this issue.
Remember Our Ongoing Activities!
Anyone interested in doing occasional bicycling tours should contact Kevin Collins, who will be leading biweekly or monthly outings. Contact Kevin at kevinmcollins@earthlink.net.
And for you roller skaters/bladers out there, contact Marcia Honeycutt if you want to join a weekly outing. Marcia's at marcia@ewenix.com.
Come To Happy Hour, Register to Win Durango Lift Tickets!
This month, our Happy Hour at The Filling Station on Barton Springs Road will have an "Enter-to-Win" box where you can drop in your name for a chance to win a 6 pack of tickets to Durango Mountain Resort! They're good for any date this season, so come on over and grab your chance to win! Thanks to Durango Mountain Resort for this great prize, too!
We're Traveling to "Oklahoma!" Right After Happy Hour!
Not the real state, but something better! On Thursday, February 20, after happy hour at The Filling Station, we'll travel to Westlake High School for its presentation of "Oklahoma!". Club member and Westlake High teacher Cindy Couch is directing the event, so it should be superb! Price is Contact Kathy Collins at 447-2320 for more information.
Back By Popular Demand Blind Test Wine Tasting (2nd Edition!)
Our first run at this in December was so popular that we're doing another round! On Friday, February 28, we're having another Blind Test Wine Tasting from 7:30-10 p.m. at Cindy Berry's house. The idea is to bring one bottle of wine and an appetizer; then we'll sample your wines anonymously. Gift certificates will be given for the highest rated wines! Reserve by February 22 (with $2 per person to cover prizes) with Tere Ayson, and remember space is limited to the first 30 people! Questions or directions (not reservations), contact Cindy Berry @ activities@austinskiers.org.
Keep Those Ski Legs in Shape Let's Go Ice Skating!
Sunday, February 23, we're hitting Chaparral Ice Rink (14200 IH 35 North, exit 247 on southbound frontage road) for an afternoon skate session. Keep those ski legs in shape and practice to become the next Olympic Big Thing or not. We'll meet up for the 1 - 3:30 p.m. session; admission is $6 and skate rental $3. Questions? Contact Rhonda Keenan at 567-3655 or rhonda.keenan@eds.com or the rink at 252-8500.
Hallelujah!
Another Gospel Brunch in March! Stay tuned for details on another great Gospel Brunch to be held Sunday, March 23, 11 a.m. at Threadgill's on Riverside Drive.
Stay Tuned for The Spring Campout!
Plan on attending the Spring Campout at Ink's Lake, May 2-4. Get your boats and water toys in shape! Details to follow in future newsletters. Questions for now, contact Cindy Berry at activities@austinskiers.org
Remember Our Ongoing Activities!
Anyone interested in doing occasional bicycling tours should contact Kevin Collins, who will be leading biweekly or monthly outings. Contact Kevin @ kevinmcollins@earthlink.net. And for you roller skaters/bladers out there, contact Marcia Honeycutt if you want to join a weekly outing.
Check out "Inside the Texas Ski Council"
See what's news for the TSC in their online "Inside" newsletter. This contains key events, info, and goings on which just might be relevant to you and a TSC trip you're on. To view the latest issue, just go to their link at http://www.texas-ski.org/insidetsc-news/inside-tsc.htm . The TSC appreciates your continued support!
Hey, we're waiting! For your input, that is. Time is running out for your surveys to get back to us, either online or on paper (see below). Here, let me prep you with a little mental push. Here are a few of my off-top-of-head ratings. Enjoy (or rant!). I'm leaving out foreign destinations, which is a whole separate topic in itself! Here goes
| Best Mountain Food | Whistler/Blackcomb | remarkably "homemade" at Canadian prices! |
| Quietest Place | Mt. Bachelor | hottest action is dripping snowmelt from trees |
| Most Happening Place | South Tahoe | C'mon, is this even close for the price? |
| Rudest Boarder | Breckenridge | got plowed over then cussed at |
| Nicest Boarder | Squaw | got plowed over then politely helped back up |
| Roughest Ride | America West | 4 trips: 2 super-delayed and 2 lost luggage |
| Best Ride | Southwest | You heard me. They're friendly, reliable, cheap! |
| Worst Airport | DFW | endless gates, trams, delays doh! I'll walk! |
| Best Airport Welcome | Jackson Hole | free screwdrivers mixed, served in terminal! |
| Best Bowls | Alta, Cooper | Alta famous, Cooper's Chicago Ridge not |
| Best Cruisers | Sierra at Tahoe | long, steep enough, and wide super GS feel! |
| One In a Million | Kirkwood | Sisters/Wall area tough but magical |
| Not In a Million Years | Jackson Hole | south end canyon ledge skiing (are you kidding?) |
| Most Varied Terrain | Whistler/Blackcomb | well duh, but lots 'o variety in close proximity |
| Best Place Hands Down | Kirkwood | snow, layout, scenery, etc. nowhere better! |
Okay, stop nodding, laughing, or cussing - take your best shot with our
trip surveys (last chance!). Go online to our Web site or fill one out at February's meeting for a chance at a year's free membership!
Bye, off to Vail
Mike Hagye - Austin Skiers Newsletter Editor
A non-profit ski club
President Doug Jordan
president@austinskiers.org
V.P. Trips Neil Martin trips@austinskiers.org
V.P. Trip Planning Gary Roth tripplanning@ austinskiers.org
V.P. Programs Jon Martin programs@ austinskiers.org
V.P. Marketing Marcia Honeycutt marketing@austinskiers.org
V.P. Membership Donna Peterman membership@ austinskiers.org
V.P. Special Activities Cindy Berry activities@austinskiers.org
Secretary Barbara Bobo secretary@ austinskiers.org
Treasurer Wendy Buck treasurer@ austinskiers.org
Newsletter Editor Mike Hagye newsletter@ austinskiers.org
Webmaster Kevin Juhl skiwebmaster@ austinskiers.org
Past President Tere Ayson pastpres@ austinskiers.org
Board of Directors
Kathy Colins director1@austinskiers.org
Cindy Carlson director2@ austinskiers.org
The Austin Skiers' newsletter is published monthly, 12 issues per year. Subscription is included with payment of yearly membership fee. Articles and correspondence should be addressed to the Editor by e-mail at newsletter@austinskiers.org or by phone (see above). Deadline for submission is the 15th of each month. Send issues regarding the Club Web site to skiwebmaster@austinskiers.org. For more information on the next Club meeting or other related activities, contact any of the following:
Austin Skiers Hotline 335-3662
E-mail: skimail@austinskiers.org
Web site: http://www.austinskiers.org
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