Austin Skiers: A club for snow sports and travel enthusiasts

The exact dates for the St. Moritz trip will be settled very soon. Don't wait; renew your membership now to be eligible for first crack at these terrific trips! Trip Chairs and prices will be published in the July newsletter. Until then, ask any officer or me you see about anything you want to know concerning our schedule. See you on the slopes!

Look! Over here now! So this is where I've ended up! Wow, my mindless scribbling continues to have a venue

First things first a big thank-you to the 2002-03 Executive Committee, which did a superb job in keeping our Club up, running, and yes, prospering! In particular, Doug Jordan deserves a huge thanks for his great job in the President's office, for reasons obvious to many of you, and even unobvious. Thanks Doug for a successful year! Doug extended his thanks to all the officers by name last month, and I second this. Furthermore; I'm absolutely thrilled that so many of last year's EC are returning! Folks, I hope you understand that your Club is in its current, superlative position and shape because of the able work done by these folks last year (and recent years). In fact - and this is the absolute truth - I put in for the Presidency specifically because these very people are returning. Make no mistake about it it's because of them that my job will be made all that much easier; I only wish I had room here to detail how each person has excelled at his job; is it any wonder that our membership has held steady while many clubs have declined, or that our financial position is solid if not excellent? Of course, I'm also more than enthused about having our newcomers Rhonda Keenan (Special Activities VP) and Linda Raymer (Secretary), which will only add to the fun! See who's doing what now on p. 12 of this issue and welcome all of them, both new and returning!

I hope this year to use this space for providing you with entertaining reading, musings on various aspects of skiing and ski-related life (as I did as Editor). I plan to include a little "items" paragraph at the end to fill you in on meaningful Club happenings at least the headlines. But I would imagine that most of you frankly don't care much about the inner workings of the Club. Look, we realize that, and while our EC is bent on doing the "nitpicking" for you to continue to make our Club what it is, we understand that your focus is on the trips and the occasional good time at a meeting or happy hour. And that's the way it should be it's been said of many things that you know they're working well when you don't notice them (security systems, car engines, you name it!). Well, that's a goal here to "invisibly" do our work so you won't have to work more or harder (or cough up more $!) to go on ski trips. Of course, that doesn't mean you can't "notice" our EC members please do, and give them a pat on the back for a job well done. Meantime, I hope to be able to spend more time on creative musings, and less on technicalities unless I have to! So stay tuned, until next month

Items of note: be sure to renew your membership now! Don't let time run out for you and be ineligible for early mail-in signup hey, are our new trips cool or what? Look at the new lineup (pp. 1, 4-5). I'm looking at Garmisch, St. Moritz, Kimberley and Reno how in the world will I pick from even that short list? (all our trips are first-rate, and great bargains to boot!) I hope to see you at the summer party (see p. 11) on June 14. All the cool people will be there; come by land or by sea (boats welcome), plus meet this year's slate of officerscalling Trip Chairs! Look at p. 12 (last page) to see how you might become a Trip Chair (and get a nice monetary reimbursement to boot!)

Keystone is a big brawny, purpose-built resort that has plenty of variety for skiers looking for everything from wide open cruising to challenging tree skiing. One of the first resorts in Colorado to open each autumn, Keystone Ski Area has three mountains stacked one behind the other. Keystone Mountain is known for its groomed, wide trails, perfect for families and beginners. North Peak boasts steep mogul covered runs, and smooth cruisers that cater to the more advanced skier. The Outback features gladed tree skiing and offers powder to adventurous intermediate and advanced skiers. The resort has a total of 22 lifts servicing the 116 ski trails. The Keystone ski pass also gives you access to nearby Vail, Breckenridge and Beaver Creek. Thank goodness for such a wonderful place to celebrate Thanksgiving!

Mt. Bachelor is one of the great legends of the Northwest. Located in central Oregon, Mt. Bachelor rises 9,065 feet from the high desert floor creating an endless winter from Thanksgiving to July! The mountain has an almost mythic reputation among purists for the quality of its snow a light, dry, high-desert powder unlike any other in this part of the world. Three hundred pristine inches a year dust 70 runs well distributed across 360 degrees of this extinct volcano. A comprehensive series of chairlifts gives access to the entire mountain covering powder chutes, forested trails, cruising runs, above-the-tree line snow fields with fun for every ability level. By careful design, beginner, intermediate and advanced terrain is accessible off most lifts so families and friends can enjoy their favorite type of skiing and still stay in the same general area to ride the lifts. With 3,686 acres of skiable terrain, you won't get bored witth this majestic beauty. What a fabulous place to welcome in the New Year!

Located just 35 minutes from the Salt Lake City airport, the old mining town of Park City offers easy access to three world-renowned resorts: Park City, Deer Valley and The Canyons. Together they offer over 8,500 skiable acres and hundreds of trails for all levels of skiers. As the home for the 2002 Winter Olympics, these ski resorts what were already some of the best facilities in North America. Park City offers a huge variety of advanced terrain, and Deer Valley has a reputation for impeccable service. The Canyons has expanded so aggressively that it is now the largest ski area in Utah and among the five largest in the U.S. The town's shuttle system makes it extremely easy to get to skiing, dining, nightlife and shopping. We' will be staying at the Park Station condos, on Main Street, near most of the restaurants, nightlife and just across from the Town Lift. Don't pass up the opportunity to go with us to one of North America's great snow destinations!

Upscale and cultured, Beaver Creek has minimal crowds on its meticulously groomed, long, sweeping runs. Beaver Creek is a feast for the eyes and a delight for the senses. The resort is the product of a master plan, resulting in a unique combination of mountain and village environments. Designed as a premier mountain destination, Beaver Creek successfully combines western hospitality with the European charm of its pedestrian village. Beaver Creek Mountain was designed to accommodate skiers of all ability levels. Friendly staff greets you in the morning with warm cookies. Escalators deliver you to the lifts, which whisk you away to an astounding variety of terrain. For a change of pace, use your lift ticket at nearby Vail, Breckenridge or Keystone. Your Beaver Creek experience is a relaxed, winter vacation with the aura and refinements of premier European resorts.

The four mountains of Aspen/Snowmass comprise one of the best-known ski resorts in the world. Snowmass is easily the largest of the four with over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, and a 4,400-foot vertical drop. Terrain is varied here, though 55% is considered intermediate. Aspen Mountain (also known as Ajax) and Aspen Highlands are similar mountains, both over 3,200 vertical feet and each about 700 skiable acres. They are both geared toward advanced skiers. Buttermilk ski resort caters primarily to beginner and intermediate skiers. A free shuttle service interconnects each of these mountains, so you can experience multiple areas during your vacation. Snowmass Village is clearly built with access to the slopes in mind. The design is 'tiered', with multiple levels extending up the hillside. It has a number of restaurants, bars, pubs, and shops - plus many more in Aspen just 12 miles north. No long bus ride on this trip, we'll be flying directly into Aspen airport. Also our lodging in Snowmass is the Top of the Village ski in/ski out condos. You will be able to step outside, step into your skis and take off. Experience skiing the way it was meant to be!

Garmisch is a town that is rich in history and culture. Local people often dress in traditional styles and many of the older buildings are decorated with beautiful frescoes. It is Germany's premier winter sports center. At the top of Garmisch is the majestic Zugspitz, Germany's highest mountain (9,730'). It has over 4000 vertical feet of skiing, with terrain for all abilities. There are nearly 200 miles of trails in the area, spread across a dozen moderately sized resorts stretching over the Austrian border. Our hotel is located a short walk from the cog railway or aerial tram. In addition, lots of unique day excursions are planned, including fairy tale castles that even Walt Disney can't match. Experience Alpine skiing with a uniquely German flavor!

With elegance, prestige and variety unparalleled by any other resort, St. Moritz is the number one winter playground of the international jet set. Impressive choices of skiing on five major mountains surround the resort. 220 miles of meticulously groomed slopes are serviced by 65 lifts!. The "dry, sparkling champagne climate" has become legendary - the famous sun of St. Moritz shines an average of 322 days a year. Après-ski is as fabulous as the skiing itself. Stylish cafés, gourmet restaurants, chic dance clubs, picturesque traditional Swiss pubs, a casino and some of the best shopping on the planet are among the options you'll enjoy after the lifts close. We'll be staying at the 4 Star Post Hotel where the breakfast buffet and a four-course gourmet dinner are included each day. Enjoy the life style of the rich and famous on this fabulous European vacation!

Kimberley-Fernie, British Columbia, Canada February 21-28 (TSC Winter Shootout)

Located within the spectacular Canadian Rockies and Purcell Mountain ranges of British Columbia, Kimberley Alpine Resort is renowned for long, groomed fall-line runs, un-crowded slopes, consistent snow conditions and an abundance of sunshine. Recent terrain expansion now makes Kimberley larger than Alta, Beaver Creek and many other major North American Resorts; with over 2,465 feet of vertical and 1800+ acres of terrain; . tThe trip will include a day at Fernie. With an average annual snowfall of over 29 feet, Fernie Alpine Resort is a powder lover's dream! The 2500 acres of terrain, 2800 feet of vertical, 5 spectacular open bowls, ridges & glades provide endless adventure on this mountain. The city of Kimberley is known as the "Bavarian City of the Rockies" -t. The area combines old European flair with outstanding hospitality, set against a beautiful backdrop of mountain scenery. The downtown area is called the 'Platzl' and looks like a small alpine village, closed off to traffic. Kimberley is owned by the same company as Lake Louise, and we all know what a fabulous resort that is!. The Kimberley adventure is too good to pass up!

Reno, NV/North Lake Tahoe, CA February 28-March 6 (long) or ; March 3-7 (short)

There is a lot more to skiing Lake Tahoe than just the resorts on the south side of the lake. The north side offers fabulous resorts such as Squaw Valley, Northstar, Alpine Meadows and Mt. Rose. Squaw Valley offers 4,000 acres of lift-served terrain, an annual snow pack of more than 450 inches and an abundance of warm California sunshine almost 300 days of the year. To ensure time is spent skiing, not waiting in lift lines, Squaw is serviced by one of the most extensive lift networks in the world. Northstar's Mount Pluto and Lookout Mountain offer 70 trails covering 2,420 acres of downhill. Terrain ranges from gentle bowls to long, steep runs and is serviced by a modern network of lifts to get you up the mountain fast. Perched high on the Nevada side of the Sierras, Mt. Rose has the highest base elevation of any ski area at Lake Tahoe 8,260 feet. The lifts take you up to 9,700 feet, offering fantastic views of Lake Tahoe and Reno. Mt. Rose has more than 900 acres of skiable and rideable terrain. We will be staying at the Golden Phoenix Casino, right in the heart of Reno. Lots of restaurants and nightlife are within walking distance; our first stay in this fabulous town should be incredible. And speaking of incredible. Wait till you see the price - you cannot afford to stay home!

Big Sky is nestled in the Northern Rockies just 18 miles north of Yellowstone Park. The skiing at Big Sky is truly legendary - huge vertical and breathtaking scenery! The facts tell the story: 3 mountains, 3,600 skiable acres, 17 lifts, 400 inches annually of light, dry snow, no lift lines and the nation's second largest vertical drop of 4,350 feet. Two optional day trips are also planned. One is to the outstanding Bridger Bowl ski area (just ask anyone who skied there on our last trip what a great area that is). The other is an opportunity to tour Yellowstone, our nation's first and best-known national park, either by snowmobile or snow coach. Since it is likely that snowmobiles will be restricted in Yellowstone in the near future, this may be the last year when it is still allowed in the park. We'll be staying in ski in/out condos, each with their own hot tub. Also in the condo complex is a lodge with spa, large outdoor hot tub, deli, and restaurant. On-call, free shuttle buses run until midnight for those emergency grocery or pub runs! Whether you're a seasoned Club vet or a newcomer who loves great skiing and gorgeous scenery, Big Sky should be your choice!

Explore the waterways, towns and countryside of Holland on a bicycle with a barge as your hotel. Former cargo barges, these vessels have been converted into passenger ships with restaurants serving breakfast, and dinner, and cabins with private baths and individual beds (no bunk beds). Each barge is staffed with experienced, friendly English-speaking crews providing a high standard of comfort and service. After breakfast pack a lunch from the buffet, then spend the day leisurely sightseeing using the bicycles provided. Tour guides and route notes help you find your way. In the afternoon return to your hotel/barge, which has moved down the canal to meet you. Bicycles are as much a part of Holland as tulips, windmills and clogs. They are so widely used, the Dutch make it is easy to tour by bike. Holland is flat and the cycling is easy. Trip price does include 3 meals daily, and your touring bicycle. This is the excuse you have been looking for to buy that new camera, so join us in seeing Europe in an entirely unique and different way.

Sail on Carnival's Elation. She's majestic. She's a marvel of imaginative design. And she's the largest "Fun Ship" floating resort to ever sail from Galveston to the Western Caribbean. The greater size of this ship means more clubs, lounges and deck space in other words, more room for more fun. On this week long "Fun from Texas" adventure; discover the beauty and hospitality of the Elation cruise liner. In addition to shore excursions at Progresso/Mérida, Cozumel and Belize, there are lots of activities on the ship and some of them will be just for the TSC. This is the perfect way to have fun and unwind at the end of the blazing hot Texas summer.

On March 8, 52 1/2 Austin Skiers landed in Boise, geared for a superb week. We really didn't have 1/2 person on the trip, but one very small person came for free. Since Abagail, 8 months old, didn't have to pay, she was joined by mom and dad, Doris "toe spreader" Robitaille and Barry Boes. After a smooth flight, we were off by busthrough the Snake River valley for a 3-hour ride into the "Valley of Fun." And Christine Cooper and Houstonite Doug Shows thought of everything - even the complete Margarita Mix kit to shorten the bus ride a bit! After a brief stop in Hailey for groceries, we made our terminus at Sun Valley's Greyhawk and Prospector condos. Surrounding us were the beautiful peaks of the Smoky Mountain Range, including Sun Valley's renown Bald Mountain (Baldy). Among the pristine white of the snowcaps, we also couldn't help notice the browns of snowless areas, but Baldy's white-capped runs looked promising nonetheless. A small tradition on a Tom and Ellen Zimmermann trip is to have each condo come up with a name, a song, a motto. For example, "Boys Town" had young'uns Josh Byrd and Adam Humphrey along with their parents Liz & Charles Earhart and Tom & Mary Humphrey (making their first Austin Skiers Trip!). The "Love Shack" had the Kesters (Bruce and Nancy) and Schrencengosts (Kathy and Randy) (we're curious as to the name, but not that curious!). Mike Hagye headed up "Condo M" (figure it out!) with Pam and Chris LeBlanc, René Payne and John Kimbrough.

A good night's sleep brought Sunday's first ski day. Despite waning snow depths, the cool weather kept the conditions favorable, and a horde of 26 Austin Skiers took to the slopes, while the Zochert's with Jan, Hal, Marley and Jesse made the first tracks on Dollar Mountain, Sun Valley's terrific learning mountain (and the original historic ski area). For many of the rest, the Sunday morning choice was the Free Mountain Tour with Hans, the Director of the Ski School, yah the Austrian style. Mike Hagye and Ben Mathis eventually joined us at the last second, because of their ill-fated decision to make their 2^nd run of the trip down the treacherous Lookout Bowl. And Lookout(!) was indeed the word, for the hard-packed snow and nix visibility in the fog made a normally couple of minute run into 45 minutes! Once the tour started, however, everyone followed our guides. Well, turns out some followed less closely than others, as Liz Earhart made a "wrong" turn and ended up doing a self-guided tour, and son Josh kept a lookout for her er Liz, that was unintentional, right?! And being Sun Valley, where the greens are blues, the blues blacks, and the blacks, well, black again, there was no shame in skiing the greens. Bob Stemper, Rainer Vanoni and all our other experts found the Seattle Ridge to be a great green place for cruising. Mike Pore thought that maybe they were turquoise.

After Sunday's skiing festivities, it was time for a party! Base Mountain Properties threw us a great Welcome Party at Apple's Bar & Grill, a Sunday afternoon après ski event. They had instantly disappearing quesadillas, burger quarters and tuna sandwiches plus beer, wine and margaritas; oh yeah, don't forget the Bloody Mary's (or was that shrimp cocktail?). And the giveaways didn't stop there; Jeff Windham, Bernise Wilson, Peggy Foreman, and Hal Zochert won a free day of demo skis, and it turns out that Pam LeBlanc walked away with the Mother of All Prizes: a brand new pair of Solomon Verse 500 all-mountain skis. Pam last reported that she's ditching her current skis because she likes the new ones so much - she thinks they are great, and so was Sports America Tours and Resort Quest for providing them.

Monday brought another fine ski day to Baldy, and we weren't there to just party so people like the Arctic Snow Kats, the Wilsons (Brian & Bernise) and Shoreys (Scott & Katherine) skied every run they could from lift start till closing. John Kimbrough, our favorite potato man of Idaho (and official potato supplier of the pre-trip party), would also come down only when the lifts closed. That night, we had a pizza/hat party in "Party Central" with Linda Raymer, Kathy Collins, Tere Ayson, Cindy Berry, and Peggy Foreman (aka "Jerry's Girls") M.C.'ing a talent show to boot! Josh Byrd both could undulate his stomach and wore a lampshade without having any adult beverages, Katherine Storey did the splits (we have photos!), Peggy Foreman made horse galloping sounds, Bernadette Dodd made her head squeak through her ears, and the "Rest Home" condo sang their song with the two Pat's (Pore & Shirejian). American Idol, look out- and all this was free? With about 50 people stuffing the condo, and the people stuffing themselves with pizza, courtesy of Trip Assistant Chair Nancy Roth's fastidious planning (thanks, Nancy!), we indeed had a party!

Tuesday brought more skiing and a less welcome trend - warmer weather. Nevertheless the skiing held up and yes that was Will Edwards, Kevin Juhl, Hank Miller, Bob Stemper, and "supersonic" Rainer Vanoni lighting it up again over at the Seattle Ridge and Bowls areas. Meanwhile, a few opted for a "ski" tour with a U.S. Forest Ranger. Well, more like "ski down to the next place to stand and listen," but it was well worth it for Mike Hagye, Tom Zimmermann, and a few others. They were spouting off historical and geographical facts or figures to anyone who would (or wouldn't!) listen the rest of the week. In the afternoon, many headed down to what would be our everyday our après ski location: the fun-filled patio of the Warm Springs Lodge. The house band Lip Service has played there for 13 consecutive years; Kathy Collins and "exotic" dancer Jerry Conner passed the tip pitcher and led the conga line around the patio, complete with funny hats- as usual, these Texans were the life of the party! Tuesday night, many headed into Ketchum for dinner or did an in-house at the condos. Ketchum is a sleepy little town; in fact it seems it never wakes up! The place virtually closes down after 5 p.m., and even crickets hit the sack! Nonetheless, several found good eateries open.

Wednesday is traditionally a "day-off day" for Club trips, and with the deteriorating conditions, many did just that. Well, some didn't, venturing up to Galena Lodge by bus and out on one of their many cross-country skiing or snowshoeing courses. This intrepid group included xc skiers Chris and Pam LeBlanc, Jeff Windham, Tom Zimmermann, Kevin Juhl, birthday boy Mike Hagye, and snowshoers John Przyborski, Pat Sherijan, Bob and Lynn McGoldrick, and of course Barry Boes, Doris Robaitelle, and their gorgeous daughter Abigail. Organizing the whole expedition was Cindy Carlson (thanks a ton, Cindy!). The group reported a terrific time, with a good workout in warm weather, accompanied by the spectacular, wooded beauty of the Sawtooth recreation area; just the ride into the mountains with deeper snow made it all worthwhile. Others took a guided auto tour, or ventured into Ketchum to shop, or rode over to the old, historic Sun Valley Lodge for lunch, exploration, or dinner.

Thursday saw conditions further deteriorate, with 10-2 being the only good times for conditions. Our "moveable feast" in the Land of Hemingway allowed us to lunch all over the mountain, with five great restaurants all week, and one example was the great Thursday lunch at the historic Roundhouse mid-mountain lodge. This artifact is kept in its almost-original 1956 condition, and inside it's a real exercise in class distinction. On one side, the "elite" can dine with crystal glasses and white tablecloths; on the other, the "rabble" can sit in vinyl booths after ordering cafeteria style. Yet there, lunch turned into a festive event as Tim the accordionist wandered over and played a variety of tunes; the dancing commenced and Kathy Collins even gave a try on the accordion!. Tim regaled us with tales of the Rich and Famous he's played for (and who's a jerk and who's not!).

Friday meant last day, which was about the time left for any decent skiing at all. After searching far and wide for the best snow, many retired early that day to Warm Springs. But for Friday, the highlight was the evening. A large group of 17 went to the Trail Creek Lodge to eat. Part of the deal was supposed to include a sleigh ride, since you can't sleigh on snowless dirt, it turned into a flatbed truck ride, with horse-drawn carts. Okay, maybe not quite as romantic, but hey, still fun. Everyone reported that their dinner at Trail Creek Lodge was superb, and soon they were back off in their respective sleigh-trucks for the return.

Saturday it was time to roll home. After enduring (or enjoying) the backup at Boise's America West ticket counter, we got to Phoenix (our connecting city). It seems that America West decided to overbook a small 60-seat jet for the Austin leg. That America West math meant several of our group were left out, and things got a little heated. But eventually things worked themselves out Special thanks go to bumpers Jerry Conner, Kathy Collins, Tere Ayson, Peggy Foreman, Ben Mathis, and unnamed others, who decided to take the next day's flight (to San Antonio nonetheless!) and drive home (for a voucher plus other perks), thereby allowing the Zocherts to fly together, and others in the group to get a critical Saturday night flight home. For the rest, all this mess meant a full 3 hour delay, which finally brought us home not at the scheduled 10 p.m. but rather about 1 a.m. Thanks go to Assistant Trip Chair Nancy Roth, and her "assistant" Gary Roth for handling communications so well, even loaning out their two way radios to the Earhart's (they needed them more after Nancy's big yard sale on Christmas Ridge). Also, we thank Bob and Lynn McGoldrick for lending us their lovely home for both parties, and to all those who helped make this trip nothing short of "West of Eden!" We put the FUN in FUN Valley!

What a great tripgreat skiing, great accommodations, great food, great shopping, and a great bunch of people! Québec City, Canada has it all. 17 Austin Skiers, as a part of over 200 Texans with the Texas Ski Council (TSC), spent a week exploring every inch of this historic town and it's surrounding mountains. I think everyone who went on this trip will agree with me when I say that I definitely want to go back.

The Chateau Le Frontenac can only be described as INCREDIBLE! We all felt like we were living in the lap of luxury. On Sunday, we skied at Mont-Sainte-Anne resort. The weather was perfect and so was the snow, and the lifts weren't too crowded, even for a Sunday. Sunday night was the TSC Welcome Party where we sampled the local desserts of Québec. The Chateau served assorted fruit with a warm maple sauce. Another local dessert that was served was warm maple syrup poured over chipped ice. You ate this by taking a Popsicle stick, swirling the syrup around the stick, and eating the syrupy taffy off the stick. This is a seasonal dessert that is only produced in the springtime. Sugar Shacks located in the forests of Québec tap the melted sap of maple trees into vats that are then heated over open fires. The warm syrup is poured onto the snow creating a taffy-like maple flavored treat. YUM! The weather didn't cooperate with us on Monday. A few tried to ski through the Canadian pea soup fog at Le Massif resort, but many of us chose to sit it out in the mountain bar. To celebrate St. Patrick's Day, the Austin Skiers went to a local Irish Pub Monday night, the D'Orsay, and had green beer and a delicious dinner. Tuesday, we went skiing at Stoneham. What a fabulous mountain! Again, we had sunny skies and perfect trails. Tuesday night, we had an optional TSC activity called Canadian Madness at Stoneham. It consisted of drinks, dinner, dancing, and hot tubbing. Wednesday was our day at Valcartier Vacanes Village and the Ice Hotel. Picture this.over 200 Texan adults screaming down snow covered slides or hillsides in a tube or a raft, or driving around an ice-covered race track in go-carts. Just watching us old fogies getting on the tube-lift was pretty entertaining. What a blast! Then it was off to tour a real, functioning hotel made entirely out of snow and ice. Each hotel room has a theme which is carved into the snow or ice walls of the room. There's also a chapel, a cinema, and a bar where we had a shot of vodka from a glass made out of ice. Brrrrrrrr! Thursday was race day. Ed Buster, Bob Bauer, Dale Young, Berni Ross, Martha Bauer, Cherilyn Hack, and Donna Peterman represented the Austin Skiers in the Club Races. In the Individual races, Dale Young, Bob Bauer, Berni Ross, and Martha Bauer competed for the Club. Four of our racers received medals Dale Young-Gold, Ed Buster-Silver, Berni Ross-Silver, and Bob Bauer-Bronze (way to go guys!), and Dale achieved the best overall time of all the male racers! Yeah, Dale! Thursday night, former Austin Skiers members, Pete and Valerie Boisvert, met us for dinner. Pete and Valerie moved up to New Hampshire about 3 years ago and made the 5 hour drive to Québec City for a couple of days to visit with the Austin Skiers. It was great to see them and to catch up. Friday was rainy, so most of us spent the day sightseeing, shopping, relaxing, and of course, packing. Friday night, we had a delicious dinner at the Awards Banquet and then danced the night away.

Québec City is an enchanting place. All in all, un bon temps a été eu par tous ! (A good time was had by all!)

On Friday, May 2, our Austin Skiers team braved the chance of hail and thunderstorms to participate in Relay For Life to benefit the American Cancer Society. The event kicked off shortly after 7 p.m. at the Lake Travis High School track with ski club member, Ken Fargason walking the first lap along with other cancer survivors. Some of us knew Ken was a cancer survivor but many of us were surprised to learn Ken also lost his wife to cancer. Our team members shared stories, visited with each other, enjoyed snacks and beverages. As the sun set and the evening hours passed, we took turns walking the Lake Travis High School track.

At 10 p.m., the lights were turned off and the track was dimly lit by the faint glow of the luminaria bags placed around the track in recognition of those living with cancer and those who lost their battle to the disease. This touching ceremony included the announcement of each name listed on the luminaria bags. Over 83,000 Texans will be diagnosed with cancer this year; many of us know more than one cancer survivor alive today. Our Austin Skiers Relay For Life team raised over $1600 to support the American Cancer Society's work in Texas. This year, the ACS will fund over $20 million in cancer research, award 150 college scholarships to childhood cancer survivors, provide over 7,000 rides to cancer treatments, visit over 3,800 women newly diagnosed with breast cancer and provide answers to over 60,000 Texans who call their 24-hour information line.

A special thanks to team members Gabe Ayson, Greg Bryant, Jackie Bayly-Bryant (team captain), Terry Champion, Deanna Cluck (top fundraiser), Janice Kaczmarek, Tim Kimbro, Jon Martin, Shonna Peters and Elisabeth Poigin for helping our team exceed our goals. We are very proud and thankful of the generous ski club members who unselfishly supported us by giving contributions. Our efforts will help others through the terrible ordeal, which often follow the words, 'You have cancer.'

If you know of someone with cancer the American Cancer Society can help. Call anytime day or night at 800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.

Hey folks, you need to start thinking about renewing your membership! You need to renew (or sign up if this is your first time) by June 15 if you want to be able to participate in early mail-in! Costs are the same as last year - $35 for single and $45 for family (see the By-Laws for definitions). Just fill out the Membership Information Form (p.2) and send it along with your check to the address shown in the form, or you can give to Donna Peterman, Membership VP at meetings or happy hours. Don't miss out on early sign-up renew now!

Hey, we really need your help! We haven't been paying a lot of attention to our Web site photo album, where we put up trip pictures (and other Club activities!). But do you know it's one of the best ways that people find out about the fun we're having? Well, we want to catch up and put your good times on our Web site for the world to see! Please contact our Webmaster, Kevin Juhl at 836-5016 or skiwebmaster@austinskiers.org. Kevin can help you on how to get your digital or paper photos on our site. It really is a fun way to show what we do, and please check it out if you never have (look for the "Photo Album" link on the home page!).

Here are the rules for the mail-in sign-up process for trips this year; It's very similar to last year. Mail-in sign-up will begin on Monday, July 28. There really is no "end" to the mail-in period, but you'll be able to sign up in person at the August monthly meeting (August 12), but you'll not be able to sign up in person before this!

You must be a current (2003-4) Club member by July 21 to have your Trip Application eligible for the July 28 mail-in start date. Don't wait! Renew your membership now!

· If you renew your membership after July 21, then your trip application date will incur a one-day delay penalty. For example, if you renew your membership on July 22 and send in your trip application on July 28, then the trip application will be counted as if it was mailed on July 29. This could be important for the most popular trips, where space often fills very quickly (by the first mail-in date).

· Membership applications are available in the Newsletter (p.2 this issue) and on the Web site. You can also contact Membership VP, Donna Peterman ( membership@austinskiers.org) for an application or help with membership/signup issues.

Obtain and fill out a trip application(s), one per person, for each trip you on which want to go.

· You can obtain trip applications on the Web site, at the General Meetings, or at happy hours.

· "Family" members can sign up their immediate family as defined in the By-Laws (Art III, Sec 1). Please remember that "children" must be under 21 or full time students.

· In order to be considered, all applications must be signed and complete. (Note: our Web site Internet version has 2 separate pages; sign and submit both).

· Checks should be made payable to "Austin Skiers" and should have the trip name on the check.

· Please put the name of your trip (e.g. "Keystone) on each envelope you send in!

· Family memberships must include one application per family member per trip envelope.

· Each trip envelope must include the signed trip application(s) and your deposit(s).

· Hand delivered trip applications are prohibited until August 1, 2003. Trip Chairs and the VP of Trips will accept hand delivered trip applications starting on August 1, 2003.

· Metered postmarks will not be accepted to eliminate the risk of dates being manipulated.

· Austin Skiers is not responsible for any problems with the U.S. Postal Service, including delayed delivery or lost mail.

· All valid, timely applications will be added to each trip's Participant List in the order of the postmark date.

· Members submitting applications that fail to meet eligibility requirements (postal or other) will be notified so that they can re-apply.

· If a trip's roster fills during early mail-in sign-up, subsequent applicants will go on a wait list in the order of the postmark date. If there are applications which tie for eligibility and cannot all be accommodated, then an unbiased lottery will be used by the President and VP of Trips to determine which applications are put on the Participant List and which ones are added to the wait list.

· The Trip Chair will hold (not deposit) waitlist members' checks until a space becomes available on the trip. Then, the Trip Chair will contact you to confirm your desire to join the trip before depositing your check.

· You will be notified of your status on the trip within a week of the Trip Chair receiving the application.

· These procedures apply to all members with the exception of Trip Chairs and current Executive Committee Members.

· All Trip Participants are subject to Austin Skiers Standing Rules, Policies and Procedures.

· If you have any questions about these procedures, contact Gary Roth, Trips VP, at trips@austinskiers.org.

June 10 Club Meeting Lions Municipal Golf Course 2901 Enfield Rd. (447-6963)

Anyone interested in doing occasional bicycling tours should contact Kevin Collins, who will be leading biweekly or monthly outings. And for you roller skaters/bladers out there, contact Marcia Honeycutt if you want to join a weekly outing.

Cap'n Hank Miller says that it's time to shimmy up the mainsail and scrub the poop deck, he'll be organizing occasional weekend Sailing excursions on the lake. If you want to be a first mate, contact Hank by e-mail at hank@pop3.realtime.net. If anyone is interested in parasailing out at the lake, we can receive an hourly group rate if enough people attend the activity (approximately $21 per person). Please contact Rhonda Keenan if you are interested and we'll see about setting up this activity sometime in the near future.

With all the wet winter weather, the golf courses are looking spectacular, and yes, golf season is starting. We'll play every week as long as the warm weather lasts (into next fall), after work, usually at a discount for nine holes before sunset. Details about which day(s) of the week, tee times, locations, and other information are coming together, but if you want to get started, contact Cindy Swannack who can give you more information on the next outing. Note: it's important that you talk to Cindy to get on the e-mailing/calling roster, because just showing up without pre-reserving is highly discouraged! Look for this to be included under the "ongoing activities" in future issues!

Friday, June 6 is the night for a great time at the Dell Diamond. We're going to watch the Round Rock Express play the Arkansas Travelers what better time on a late spring evening? And after the game, there's the usual Friday night fireworks display to boot! Game time is 7:05 p.m. We'll be in the General Admission section, on the lawn behind the outfield bring a blanket and just look for us! Tickets for lawn seats are $5, and you should buy them on your own, by purchasing them directly from the ballpark (Dell Diamond) ticket office, or calling it at 255-BALL (2255), or buying online from www.startix.com. Per Texas League rules, no lawn chairs, food or beverages are permitted in the ballpark. Directions: From IH-35, take exit 253 (Hwy 79/Taylor) and go east 3.5 miles. Dell Diamond will be on the left. Questions or for additional info, contact Rhonda Keenan

Hey, the lake is up this year, so what's better than spending the day at a lake house at our annual Summer Party? Saturday, June 14 is the day, and our old favorite, Martin Destafano's Lake Travis house, is the location this year! The party starts at noon and lasts until dark! Come by land (directions below) or by sea if you know how to get your boat there! We'll have fajitas at 6 p.m. and water for the day, but you should bring your own drinks and snacks (and swim stuff)! Please RSVP with $5 by June 6 to Cindy Berry or Rhonda Keenan , or e-mail activities@austinskiers.org if questions. This will be catered and you must RSVP to be able to get in line for the 6 p.m. fajitas! Also please respect Martin's request that the party area be limited to the downstairs and the deck.

Directions: Take 2222 15 miles west of Austin, cross 620, and the road becomes Bullick Hollow. Continue about 3+ miles to a stop sign and turn left on Anderson Mill Road. Go about 3+ miles and you'll see the Volente Fire Dept. on the right, VJs Grocery on the left; go 1/2 mile more, then turn left onto Booth Circle. After about 1,000 yards you will see a small windmill and mailbox (DeStefano) and an Austin Skiers sign.

Saturday, July 12 is the date! There's free admission to this year's musical Crazy for You (music and lyrics by George and Ira Gershwin and winner of the 1992 Tony Award for best musical). The show will be held at the Zilker Hillside Theater in Zilker Park across the parking lot from Barton Springs swimming area. Start time is approximately 8p.m.; blankets may be laid out to reserve your place beginning at 6pm. Bring a picnic meal or purchase drinks and snacks from the theater's concession stand (proceeds benefiting the production). Look for us to the right side of the stage. If you have questions, contact Rhonda Keenan.

Saturday, July 19 will be the night for a unique, interactive mystery featuring you as the detective! Enjoy a special evening of mystery and mayhem while dining on a fabulous three course meal as the action takes place around you this will be hilarious and highly entertaining! Dave & Buster's is located at Mopac & Hwy 183 (346-8015). Cost is $29.95 plus tax per person for dinner and show, and we'll get a 10% discount for a group of 15 or more. Entree choices are usually Chicken Wellington, Prime Rib or Salmon Crown served with a salad, two vegetables, dessert, tea and coffee. Arrive at 7:45 p.m and the fun begins at 8 p.m., lasting until approximately 9:30-10 p.m. RSVP to Rhonda Keenan by July 15.

Saturday, July 26, we're heading out for a night in the famous Warehouse District! We'll begin the night at 7pm with dinner at Mezzaluna's (310 Colorado) and/or join us afterwards at 8:30 p.m. for drinks and dancing at Cedar Street, Speakeasy and wherever else our happy feet take us in the Warehouse District! If you plan on having dinner, please RSVP to Rhonda Keenan by July 17.

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!

Austin Skiers shirt	Kent Wick
Water bottle	Tere Ayson
Gimme cap	Rhonda Keenan
Baskin-Robbins $10 Gift Certificate	Becky Douglas
T-shirt	Thomas Thrams

Leading an Austin Skiers trip is fun and rewarding, and is one of the most important positions in the Club. It is a terrific opportunity to help people, make new friends, and receive a substantial discount on your trip expenses. The Trip Planning Committee has done a lot of work to contract the lodging and transportation. At this point, the Trip Chair steps in to promote the trip, manage the finances, plan the trip activities, and most importantly, keep everyone well informed. Trip leaders are the Club's most visible representatives to our members, so we are looking for enthusiastic, outgoing and very organized people with leadership experience. In this electronic world, using email and spreadsheets, such as Excel, have become important skills for the successful Trip Chair, yet have saved the Chair tons of time and effort in recent years!. For large trips, the Trip Chair will choose an assistant. Trip Chairs and Assistants require the approval of the Executive Committee, which will meet on June 17.

We have great trips planned for the upcoming year. Don't miss this opportunity to earn the respect and admiration of your fellow club members by being the Trip Chair for one of these terrific trips. To receive a Trip Chair Application, which can be filled in electronically, or to find out more, contact Gary Roth, VP of Trips at trips@austinskiers.org. The deadline for applications is June 15, 2003..

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 publications@austinskiers.org or by phone (see above). Deadline for submission is the 15^th 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:

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Issue 06:03

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