Idaho Falls Ski Club

Transcription

1 IFSC Idaho Falls Ski Club Newsletter - Winter 2017/18 d Fall Kick-Off Party - October 27, Snow Eagle Brewing and Grill d Annual Ski Sale & Fest - November 10 & Pinecrest Event Center d Alpine and Nordic Ski Trips (including Zermatt, Switzerland!) d Grand Targhee and Jackson Hole Discounts d Member Benefits d Ski Lesson Discounts (individuals/families) Join us on social media! ifskiclub.com f facebook.com/ifskiclub $ instagram.com/downhilltherapy q twitter.com/ifskiclub PAGE 1

2 PAGE 2 President s Message Why does the Idaho Falls Ski Club exist? Our mission is to actively promote lifelong winter recreation for all the ages throughout Idaho Falls and surrounding communities in the form of Alpine and Nordic skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing through its recreational and educational activities. We promote snow sports through lessons, educational activities, social functions, lift ticket discounts, and sponsoring local & international trips. For over 70 years, the Ski Club has been a great way to promote and enjoy winter opportunities! This is accomplished through many hours of volunteerism and by funds generated through the annual Ski Sale & Festival and membership dues. We had ~1000 members last year and a goal of increasing membership this year to provide even more opportunities for the community. We are always encouraging family memberships at a discounted rate (making skiing affordable for everyone!). Here are some of the many ways we strive to support individual and family winter recreation in our community: Instructional Weekends: IFSC subsidizes about $15,000 for professional lessons during 3 instructional weekends at Grand Targhee; reducing the lesson cost to $6 for children and $11 for adults. What a great family activity!. Nordic Opportunities: Our Board helped coordinate with the Nordic Ski Patrol to purchase 55 pairs of cross country skis and boots for 4th graders in District 93. In addition, we are providing the groomer equipment and snow machine to provide cross country trails for them at their schools. We also continue to negotiate with the Palisades Ranger District, Caribou Targhee National Forest, the U.S. Forest Service and Kelly Canyon Ski Resort to support Nordic skiing opportunities close to Idaho Falls. This year, we are replacing the Kelly Mountain Hut which has provided nordic and snowshoe opportunities for 22 years! Did you know the Hut has overnight accommodations? The experience is comfortable, secluded and beautiful and ideal for big groups. Did I mention the Ski Club grooms the trails that allow access to the Hut? Member Benefits: We have many partnerships with local businesses that give discounts to IFSC members. Look for discounts and benefits on lift tickets, gear, lodging, food, drink and services. We are always adding new vendors and the vendor list is included in this newsletter and on our website. Discount Lift Tickets: Our Jackson Hole voucher program cannot be beat offering lift tickets for $82 per day! We also offer discounted lift prices at Grand Targhee. Alpine/Nordic Ski Trips: IFSC has volunteer coordinators who organize trips to international and area resorts. Check out the trips for new ski opportunities and discounts. Social Events: We offer social activities when we re not on the slopes, including a Fall Kick-Off Party, a spring social and summer IFSC Chukar s Baseball Night. At the last Spring Social we enjoyed a great band, craft beverages, and a fantastic taco bar at the Idaho Brewing Company. Community Youth Support: Last year 4 local high school ski clubs supported our Ski Sale & Fest. The volunteers were awarded complimentary memberships and a donation to their ski clubs, which subsidized student trips to 3 area ski resorts. We look forward to their participation again this year. Check out our award-winning webpage at Also find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram (#downhilltherapy), and the Ski Club Corner in the Post Register. I look forward to seeing you at the Socials, Sale, and on the slopes! If you have any comments or questions you can drop me a line at villarreal.robin@gmail.com. IFSC President, Robin Villarreal

3 Fall Kick-Off Party!!! Friday, October 27, 6:30pm Snow Eagle Brewing & Grill 455 River Parkway, Idaho Falls FREE entry for IFSC Members Includes 2 drink tickets and plenty of appetizers! $15.00 for non-members Sign-up or renew your membership at the party. Cash or check only Raffle prizes from local merchants and ski areas. Don t forget to dress up for Halloween - prizes for best costume! Membership Information Adult memberships: $25 each Junior memberships: $15 each (18 and under at time of purchase) Family memberships: To receive a family membership discount, all memberships must be purchased at the same time and all members must live in the same household. At least one Adult membership must be purchased at $25 and the first Junior membership at $15. All remaining Junior memberships are $5. Memberships available: Online ( The Fall Kick-Off Party 2017 Ski Sale & Fest OR Idaho Mountain Trading 478 Shoup Ave. (208) Play It Again Sports 1515 Ashment Ave. (208) Teton Board Sports 432 Farnsworth Way Rigby, ID (208) INL Employee s Association c/o Darla Miller MS3860 EROB (208) PAGE 3

4 2017 Ski Sale & Fest Dates: Friday and Saturday, November 10 and 11, 2017 Hours: Sale hours have changed this year Early bird: Friday from 6 7 pm, with regular sale hours from 7 10 pm Saturday hours: 9 am 6 pm There will be no Sunday hours! Location: 560 East Anderson (in the Fred Meyer parking lot) Ski Sale: This venue has been transformed into the Pinecrest Events Center and will be filled with good items for you to check out. You will find skis, snowboards, boots, Nordic equipment, all the needed accessories, and gear for the kids. Shop for new or used equipment, visit with friends, and plan your outdoor adventures! Depot: Equipment Check-in and Drop-off Bring any items you want to sell on Thursday, Nov 9 from 5 9 pm and Friday, Nov 11 from noon to 5 pm. Our knowledgeable can help you with pricing. Unsold equipment MUST be picked up on Saturday evening or it will be donated to a local charity. Ski Fest: Same hours and location as the sale. Visit booths for information, drawings, and sign up for deals from ski resorts, hotels, and more. You can also purchase your ski club membership at the sale, find information about trips, and ask questions about the club. Volunteers Needed: Volunteers are needed to help with the sale and they get to shop with the early birds! During sale hours: cashiers, office and security volunteers Outside sale hours: sale set up (Thursday evening) and take down (Saturday evening) Equipment check-in: Thursday night and Friday afternoon To volunteer, call or text Peggy Hinman (Past President) at (208) by November 2. Your safety is important to us, professionals are available to inspect your bindings and gear. PAGE 4

5 Idaho Falls Ski Club News Alpine Corner Zermatt Switzerland March 2-11, 2018 d SOLD OUT d For many years IFSC has sponsored a bi-annual international ski trip. This a great opportunity meet other members of the club while enjoying world-class skiing, learning about new cultures, and tasting some fine food and drink. These trips offer activities other than skiing and are a great start to traveling abroad. Nordic Corner New Hut Planned for this Year! IFSC is purchasing a new custom-made tent from Idaho Canvas to upgrade its Kelly Mountain Hut, which we setup every winter above Kelly Canyon Ski Resort. The old one has been around for decades and needs to be retired. We hope to have the new hut setup by mid- November and will be taking reservations for overnight stays starting then (see IFSC website). In order to continue this very popular community service, we are seeking donations from IFSC members and the general public to help defray costs. If you can contribute or help with hut setup in November, please see the Donation page on our website or call Mike Abbott at (208) Kelly Canyon Grooming This year, IFSC will be traveling to Zermatt, Switzerland, a mile-high ski Mecca for all levels of skier. At the foot of the majestic Matterhorn, best known for its southern exposure, record snowfall levels, and quintessential Swiss Charm, Zermatt is an incredible ski destination - one of the top 10 in the world! We'll be skiing the three main ski areas of Rothorn, Gornergrat and Matterhorn Glacier, with a hop over the border for lunch in Cervinia, Italy. Zermatt is only accessible by train and renowned for its "all inclusiveness" - no cars in the village; electric vehicles and horse-drawn sleighs and carriages are the only transport allowed! With nightlife, entertainment, shopping and non-stop skiing - Zermatt has it all! A place to soothe your mind with classical music, enjoy live concerts or dance 'till you drop in clubs that stay open till all hours of the morning... Zermatt's the rockin' place to be! From pubs to Zermatt's discos, there's something for all - a trip of a lifetime. Thanks, Dave Brown for coordinating this wonderful opportunity! We will once again perform weekly grooming activities on the public forest roads (FR 217, 218, and 881) above Kelly Canyon Ski Resort starting in December, weather permitting. This grooming is being performed with the help and support of the Palisades Ranger District, Caribou-Targhee National Forest. IFSC uses their ginzu groomer and track setter to set high-quality track for classic skiers and skate skiers. This are is also used by snowshoers, and fat-tire bikers. These trails reach into beautiful, remote public forests that provide you with a cost-effective way to experience the amazing mountain terrain locally available. New Nordic Ski Program at Elementary Schools IFSC has joined forces with the Idaho Falls Nordic Ski Patrol to establish a new Nordic ski program for local elementary schools this winter. The Nordic Ski Patrol purchased 55 pairs of kid s skis/boots, and IFSC will be using its grooming equipment to set track around the schools. This program is being initially implemented as part of PE activities at seven or more District 93 elementary schools. We hope to train classroom teachers at the schools to incorporate XC skiing into their curriculum and encourage up to 500 4th graders to learn how to XC ski (and get in shape!) over the course of the winter how cool is that? Contact Mike Abbott, IFSC Nordic Area Director (208) or Julie Abbott, D93 PE Coordinator (208) PAGE 5

6 Idaho Falls Ski Club Alpine Trips AVALANCHE AWARENESS NIGHT December 4, pm Taylorview Middle School Auditorium This course is free and open to the public!! The Idaho Falls Ski Club, The American Avalanche Institute, and Wray and Lani Landon will be presenting the 9th annual Avalanche Awareness Night. The course covers material that is important to anyone considering venturing into the winter backcountry. It also provides excellent refresher material for experienced backcountry users. Content includes: The fundamentals of snowpack, weather, and terrain Avalanche forecast bulletins Backcountry decision-making basics Current season snowpack overview A wonderful assortment of door prizes will be given away following the presentation. Coordinators: Wray and Lani Landon (208) GRAND TARGHEE INSTRUCTIONAL #1, #2, #3 #1 December 16-17, 2017: Deadline to reserve: Dec 12th #2 February 3-4, 2018: Deadline to reserve: Jan 30th #3 March 10-11, 2018: Deadline to reserve: March 6th Cost: $11 per adult (15 and over), $6 per junior (4 to 14 years) REMINDER: Sign up online prior to deadline. Any lessons made after the deadline will cost double ($22 adult lessons; $12 kid lessons.) Pick up lesson tickets at Grand Targhee/Wild Bill s Grill. Go to www. ifsc.com for lesson registration form. This is an extremely popular ski club activity. The two-hour lessons are offered to IFSC members at outstanding rates. You may take more than one lesson per day. Lessons do not include a lift ticket, but discounted lift tickets are available through IFSC. Interested in a Terrain Park Lesson or Snow Bike Lesson? There will be 6 spots for Terrain Park available in both snowboard and downhill. Your skill level must be intermediate/advanced. Snow bike lesson does not include bike rental. Cancellation Policy: You may cancel lessons up to 3 days prior to the event. Failure to cancel by then will result in forfeiture of lesson fee. Coordinator: Moira Solle (208) , idasolle@msn.com POMERELLE INSTRUCTIONAL #1 January 6th, 2018 Reservation deadline: Dec 29th Our Pomerelle trips are an exceptionally good value, and a great way to get your family skiing! You can t pass up this trip! Also, be sure to check out Instructional #2, which includes bus transportation. Pomerelle consistently has great snow and a lot of it. They are often the first Idaho resort to open for the winter season. One thing you won t find at Pomerelle is the mega resort atmosphere, and that is one of it's outstanding qualities. You re sure to enjoy your visit. The driving distance is about 145 miles; see the ISFC website for directions. A secluded resort awaits you! Cost: $17 per adult, $12 per junior Six year olds and younger ski free with parent. Price includes a one hour lesson and a lift ticket. $10 ski package rental $15 snowboard package rental Updates: Please check the Club website for updates prior to the trip. Kevin will meet you on the main floor of the lodge prior to 9:00am to hand out tickets. You will need your membership card to obtain your tickets. Lessons from the Pomerelle Ski School begin at 10:30 am. These lessons contribute significantly to thegreat pricing of this trip, so the expectation is all participants will take part in the lessons, and all skiing levels are covered. Please be courteous by being on time for the lessons. (Special lesson arrangements are required for children 6 years old or younger and may have additional costs.) Registration & Payment: Register on the IFSC website, or send Kevin a check for the full amount payable to IFSC along with each member s name, membership number, member s age, type of lesson (ski or board), and the skill level (beginner, intermediate, or advanced). Also, include your phone number or address to receive confirmation. Coordinator: Kevin Skinner IFSC.Skinner@gmail.com 9325 N 55 E, (208) after 7pm week days SUN VALLEY WEEK Intermountain Ski Council (ISC) trip January 2-7, 2018 Lodging: The group rates and details for lodging at the Sun Valley Inn and Sun Valley Lodge are available on the IFSC or ISC websites. Reservations should be made directly with Sun Valley Resorts at (800) Make sure you mention the ISC trip when making reservations and ordering lift tickets. If you do not want to stay the entire week, reservations can be made for the specific day(s) you want to stay during the week. You will only be charged for the nights you stay. ISC will be hosting a social evening on Friday night at either the Sun Valley Lodge or Inn. Check the ISC or IFSC websites for trip updates. Lift Tickets (Individual): One Day $ of-3 Days $ of-5 Days $ of-6 Days $ of-7 Days $ of-8 Days $ Juniors (15 and under) who stay 3 nights or more with parents ski free. Coordinator: Don Rasch (208) PAGE 6

7 Idaho Falls Ski Club Alpine Trips JACKSON HOLE WEEKEND Jan 19-21, 20178Reservation Deadline: Jan 9th Don t miss this affordable trip to one of the highest rated ski resorts in the USA: Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (JHMR). IFSC offers voucher tickets to JHMR at an extreme discount (almost 50%!). Likewise, the Antler motel has offered IFSC very affordable rates for this weekend. This trip usually fills up, so make your reservations early. Lodging: We will be staying at the Antler motel. The Antler Motel is just off the square in Jackson. You may stay either Friday and Saturday nights, or just one night. A social hour including wine, cheese, snacks and other beverages will be followed by The Antler s fantastic Elk BBQ dinner (very popular) on Saturday evening, all of which is included in the price. Lodging Cost (daily rates): Single occupancy: $60 Double occupancy: $30/pp Triple occupancy: $20/pp Quad occupancy: $15/pp Fireplace: double occupancy $44/pp; quad occupancy $22/pp All rooms have 2 queen beds, except fireplace rooms. Verify availability prior to sending payment. Tickets: Members are responsible for lift tickets. IFSC JHMR voucher prices are available. Reservation/Payment: Reservations will be accepted in order of payment received. NO EXCEPTIONS! Sign up/ pay online or send a check for lodging amount, payable to IFSC, to the coordinators with each member's name and membership number and lodging dates. Include your address to receive confirmation. Nordic and backcountry skiers are welcome on this trip. For ideas, snag a copy of the free Skinny Skis publication Nordic Trail Guide available in the motel lobby. Coordinators: Glen and Barb Hayes Phone: or hayesbg@ida.net 2285 Balboa Drive Reminder: You must have an IFSC ticket voucher purchased in Bonneville Country, picture ID, and IFSC membership card to redeem vouchers at JHMR. YOUTH AVALANCHE AWARENESS COURSE January 21, 2018 Snow King Resort, Jackson, WY In association with the Jackson Hole Weekend, IFSC is offering an avalanche awarenes training specifically for high school aged youth with an interest in winter backcountry adventures. This course is presented by the American Avalanche Institute. The one-day program introduces basic concepts regarding snow and avalanches, as well as backcountry travel basics. The course will include both classroom and field training. This course will be capped at 12 students, so register early!! Please see IFSC website for more details as the date approaches. Cost: $40 Scholarships available through IFSC. Coordinator: Jacie Coleman (208) POMERELLE INSTRUCTIONAL #2 TRANSPORTATION PROVIDED! February 24th, 2018 Reservation Deadline: Feb 15th This trip is truly an affordable family memory maker. Give your family your full attention and leave the driving to us. We'll travel together on a comfortable touring bus, ski the great snow of Pomerelle, and stop in American Falls for dinner at Pizza Hut. See the Instructional #1 description for all the attributes of Pomerelle. The ski school at Pomerelle contributes significatntly to the great pricing of this trip, so the expectation is that all participants will take part in the lessons, and they have lessons for all skill levels. Our bus will leave at 6:30 am sharp from DARE's Dr. Slaughter's House of Terror on 1st Street in Idaho Falls. After a day of skiing, we'll leave at 4:30 pm and head for Pizza Hut in American Falls. We plan to arrive back in Idaho Falls before 9:00 pm. Hope you will join us! Cost: $35 per person Six year olds and younger ski free with parent. Price includes a onehour lesson and a lift ticket, bus transportation and pizza! $10 ski package rental $15 snowboard package rental Please check the Club website for updates prior to the trip. Registration & Payment: Register on the Club s website, or send Kevin a check for the full amount payable to IFSC along with each member s name, membership number, age, type of lesson (ski or board), and skill level (beginner, intermediate or advanced). Also, include your phone number or address to receive confirmation. Coordinator: Kevin Skinner IFSC.Skinner@gmail.com 9325 N 55 E, (208) after 7pm week days BIG SKY/MOONLIGHT BASIN Dates TBD This trip is still going through the planning and development at the time of printing this newsletter. This trip will provide opportunities for both alpine and nordic skiiers with lodging available at the Huntley Lodge and Lone Mountain Ranch (see Nordic Trips for more details). For guests that want one day of alpine skiing and one day of nordic skiing, there is a free shuttle between the Huntley Lodge and Lone Mountain Ranch. Please contact the IFSC alpine trip coordinator for availability and rates. For detailed information, visit the Ski Club s web page at Coordinator: TBD PAGE 7

8 KELLY CANYON IFSC WARMING HUTS SETUP (TENTATIVE) Dec 2017 Date TBD (about the time Kelly Canyon Resort opens) Reservation Deadline: None The Morgan summit hut (tent) was damaged beyond repair by heavy snow load last winter. IFSC is replacing the hut this Fall. We anticipate an onschedule setup this year. Check the IFSC website or contact coordinator for status updates. Coordinator: Mike Abbott, AVALANCHE AWARENESS NIGHT Dec 4, 2017, Monday, 7-9 pm Taylorview Middle School Auditorium This course is free and open to the public! The Idaho Falls Ski Club, The American Avalanche Institute, and Wray and Lani Landon will be presenting the 9th annual Avalanche Awareness Night. The course covers material that is important to anyone considering venturing into the winter backcountry. It also provides excellent refresher material for experienced backcountry users. Content includes: The fundamentals of snowpack, weather, and terrain Avalanche forecast bulletins Backcountry decision-making basics Current season snowpack overview A wonderful assortment of door prizes will be given away following the presentation. Coordinators: Wray and Lani Landon (208) GRAND TARGHEE INSTRUCTIONAL #1, #2, #3 #1 December 16-17, 2017: Deadline to reserve: Dec 12th #2 February 3-4, 2018: Deadline to reserve: Jan 30th #3 March 10-11, 2018: Deadline to reserve: March 6th Cost: $11 per adult (15 and over), $6 per junior (4 to 14 years) REMINDER: Sign up online prior to deadline. Any lessons made after the deadline will cost double ($22 adult lessons; $12 kid lessons.) Pick up lesson tickets at Grand Targhee/Wild Bill s Grill. Go to IFSC PAGE 8 Idaho Falls Ski Club Nordic Trips website for lesson registration form. This is an extremely popular ski club activity. The two-hour lessons are offered to IFSC members at outstanding rates. You may take more than one lesson per day. Lessons do not include a lift ticket, but discounted lift tickets are available through IFSC. Interested in a Terrain Park Lesson or Snow Bike Lesson? Snow bike lesson does not include bike rental. Cancellation Policy: You may cancel lessons up to 3 days prior to the event. Failure to cancel by then will result in forfeiture of lesson fee. Coordinator: Moira Solle (208) , idasolle@msn.com MESA FALLS DAY TRIP Saturday, January 6, 2018 Reservation Deadline: January 4, 2017 Take this scenic day trip to overlooks of the Lower and Upper Mesa Falls northeast of Ashton. The route follows the rim of the North Fork of the Snake River and is a loop of approximately 6 miles. On a clear day there are inspiring views of the Teton Range. Tailgate party afterward, weather permitting. Contact the trip coordinator for car pool and meeting logistics. Coordinator: Neil Schafer, , nschafcpa@gmail.com JACKSON HOLE WEEKEND Jan 20 and 21, 2018 Reservation Deadline: January 9, 2018 This is an alpine trip that will accommodate Nordic skiers. There are many XC ski trails in the Jackson area: Teton National Park, Teton Pines Nordic Center, Jackson Hole Nordic Center at Teton Village (with a skating track). See the Alpine trip description for details. Local transportation arrangements should be made in advance. Coordinators: Glen & Barb Hayes 2285 Balboa Drive (208) or (208) hayesbg@ida.net HARRIMAN PARK TO POND S LODGE DAY TRIP Jan 20, 2018 Reservation Deadline: Jan 17, 2018 This 12-plus mile intermediate trail starts at Harriman Park and ends at Pond s Lodge. Car shuttles will be arranged. Those who would rather have an easier day at the Pond s Lodge could drop the rest of us off at Harriman Park and drive the cars to Pond s Lodge. We will meet at the lodge and have snacks and a beverage before driving home. Coordinator: Bob Lugar, (208) , bobannalugar@gmail.com CRATERS OF THE MOON DAY TRIP Saturday, January 27, 2018 Reservation Deadline: January 24, 2018 Cost: see below. We will meet at the Albertson s parking lot on west Broadway (in Idaho Falls) at 7:30 AM to car pool to Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve. Craters of the Moon is operated by the National Park Service so there may be an access charge, although there was no charge in previous years. There is a 7 mile loop road that the Park Service grooms for both track and skate skiing. Also, there are miles of trails for the snowshoeing. The club will provide snacks for the trip, but make sure you bring water and lunch. We will be departing Craters at 3:30 pm for the return drive to Idaho Falls. Coordinators: Don and Debbie Rasch: (208) BIG SKY, LONE MOUNTAIN RANCH Dates TBD For the Nordic connoisseur, Lone Mountain Ranch has a 35 year heritage of providing top quality cross country skiing, and was voted the #1 Nordic ski resort in North America by Cross Country Skier Magazine ( Lone Mountain Ranch professionally grooms 85 km of scenic and diverse trails for both classic and skate skiing. The trail system encompasses 2200 vertical feet from the top of Summit to the Meadow trails. For guests that want one day of Alpine skiing and one day of Nordic skiing, there is a free shuttle between the Huntley Lodge and Lone Mountain Ranch. If available, the accommodations at the Lone Mountain Ridgetop Lodge have stunning views, private bath/shower, a recreation room with pool table, washer/dryer, stone fireplace, and outdoor hot tub and deck. Rooms can accommodate up to three people with a king or queen bed and a day bed. Additional options regarding lodging, rates for children, or lessons can be

9 Idaho Falls Ski Club Nordic Trips discussed directly with the Ranch. Please contact the IFSC alpine trip coordinator for availability and rates. This trip is still going through the planning and development at the time of printing this newsletter. For detailed information, visit the Ski Club s web page at See alpine trip description for cost and more trip details. Coordinator: TBD HARRIMAN PARK MOONLIGHT OVERNIGHT Feb 23-25, 2018 Reservation Deadline: Jan 23, 2018 Lodging Cost: $32/person total (includes two nights) This is a new trip this year and it s going to fill up, so mark your calendars and contact Amy ASAP to make your reservation! Join us for two days and two nights of fun at Harriman State Park! The park offers 25 miles of groomed cross country and snowshoe trails that are well marked and many are well suited for beginners. You will stay at the park s Railroad Ranch Dormitory, which includes bunk rooms, kitchen, and modern restrooms. There will be a wine and cheese mixer Friday evening, and then on Saturday evening there will be a potluck dinner, live music, and a guided moonlight ski tour to a warming yurt! Clean up and checkout out of the Dormitory is by noon on Sunday. All meals are the responsibility of each participant. Transportation will be by car pool or private vehicle; however we strongly prefer car pool due to limited parking, plus it s a great way to meet fellow club members. Full payment of the lodging cost required at time of reservation. Coordinator: Amy Kaser (208) ski.bum.1973@hotmail.com NORDIC SKI 'FREE DAY' AT GRAND TARGHEE Date: TBD Please the IFSC website for updates as the date approaches. Beautiful terrain, wildlife, pure air, and groomed tracks come together to make up the Grand Targhee Nordic Trail System. Rick s Basin and Quakie Ridge are considered some of the most beautiful Nordic terrain in the region. The trail system offers 15km of groomed classic crosscountry trails and skate skiing lanes that wind through wooded glades, aspen groves, and scenic meadows. IFSC membership card is required to waive the daily trial fee. Nordic trails are groomed, and the classic track is set, on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, conditions permitting. Coordinator: Bob Lugar, (208) bobannalugar@gmail.com REMOVAL OF KELLY CANYON IFSC WARMING HUT (TENTATIVE) Spring 2018 Date TBD, (based on when Kelly Canyon Resort closes) The Morgan summit hut (tent) was damaged beyond repair by heavy snow load last winter. IFSC is replacing the hut this Fall. Removal will be planned based on Kelly Canyon's closure schedule. Check the IFSC website or contact coordinator for status updates. Coordinator: Mike Abbott (208) , abb@srv.net High School Ski Clubs Idaho Falls High School - It has been five years since I started skiing. I mean I had skied a couple of time back in Michigan, where I am from, but that was more like sledding/ice skating down a nice gentle slope. It was five years ago that I really started skiing. I remember it as if it was yesterday. I went to Grand Targhee with a couple buddies thinking I would stay on the beginner hill and figure this whole thing out. My friends had other plans though and took me to the top of the resort and down Headwall. After lots of crashes and falls I started to figure it out towards the end and I was instantly hooked. Since then I have developed into a much better skier with the help of my friends and have made all sort of great memories. As the advisor I have had an amazing opportunity to give kids the chance to ski a lot of the resorts that maybe they couldn t before because of distance or even cost. It has given all levels of skiers a chance to be with their friends and make ski memories just like I have done over theseshort five years. For the club, the students get a chance to take four day trips to Jackson Hole Resort, Grand Targhee, Sun Valley, and Big Sky. We get a bus and we usually leave early in the morning and return later in the evening. With great group discounts from the resorts, and the fact that we also combine with Skyline High School, we can usually do this fairly inexpensively. This year though, we were given a very gracious donation by the IFSC allowing us to drop our price. This small drop in price did amazing things for our ski club. Our numbers exploded! Normally, at IFHS we have about kids sign up for the club, but this year we had over 25 kids. The number, and the fact the snow was pretty good, made for a really fun season. It is great when you run in to kids on the hill, or when you get back to the bus and get to hear all these amazing, and often hilarious, stories about the runs that some of these kids would take or hearing about a kid s experience riding through knee-deep powder or landing a cool jump. I have been very blessed to make some great memories on the ski hill, but the one thing that is even better is to give these kids the opportunities to create lifelong memories. This year, with the help of the IFSC, we were able to bring that opportunity to even more kids. Advisor: Matt Houser Skyline High School - Eight years ago I lucked into a fantastic job as the advisor for the Skyline High School Ski Club. We have a great group of kids who are very passionate about their skiing or snowboarding, and are a lot of fun to go on our trips with. On average we have about 25 students and we combine with Idaho Falls High School to fill a bus. This year we ended up with 54 students between the two schools. We take four big day trips each year; Jackson Hole, Sun Valley, Targhee, and Big Sky. It is a ton of fun to see these kids faces after they get off of the hill after a great day of skiing. They can t stop talking about the fun they had. Many of them have never been to these places before, and probably wouldn t go if it weren t for the club. It is also a great opportunity for our foreign exchange students to interact with other students and for them to see what this country really has to offer. Over the years the cost of taking these trips has increased, even though we have done everything we can to keep them as low as possible. This year with the support of the IFSC we were able to keep those costs lower than ever for our kids. As a result we ended up with more students participating than we have ever had before. The kids definitely appreciated the support. Advisor: Chase Meyer PAGE 9

10 With purchase of membership, receive the following discounts from November through June 30, 2018 unless otherwise posted. A Street Soup Market 445 A Street 10% off purchase. Must show Applebee s 975 University Blvd Rexburg, ID 10% Off Any Food Item per table per visit. Must show Bee's Knees 850 Lindsay Blvd 20% off total with proof of membership Bill s Bike Shop 930 Pier View Drive Celt Pub & Grill 398 W. Broadway % off total purchase. Must show $1 off beer, wine, and well drinks. Not available with other specials, happy hour, etc. Must show membership card. Dave's Bike Shop 367 W Broadway 10% off purchase, excludes bikes. Must show Denny s 950 Lindsay Boulevard $5 off $20 purchase or more. Must show PAGE 10

11 Diablas Kitchen 368 A St. 10% off total purchase. Not valid on Sundays or Theme Dinners. Must show Garcia s 2180 E 17th Ammon, ID $10 Off Purchase of $30 or more. Not valid with any other in-store special. Must show Great Harvest Bread (both locations in Idaho Falls) Buy one full sized sandwich and get a second one for half price (must show membership card). Idaho Mountain Trading 474 Shoup Ave $8 off any ski or snowboard tune, $10 off any purchase of $75 or more, $20 off any single purchase over $199, $40 off any purchase over $699, Closeouts excluded and cannot be combined with other discounts Keefer s Island 780 Lindsay 10% off total purchase; excludes alcohol. Must show Krung Thep Thai Cuisine 366 Shoup Ave 10% off order. Must show Leo s Place Pizza and Funland 155 S. Holmes Buy 1 Get One Free Playland Pass; Limit 3. Must show PAGE 11

12 Lucy s Pizzeria 725 E. Anderson St. ; 2489 S, 25th E, Ammon, ID 2874 E 650 N Roberts, ID Mackenzie River Pizza 1490 Milligan Road 15% off total purchase at all locations. Must show 10% off purchase Must show membership card to receive discount. Mangini s Take N Bake 531 Lomax Jumbo 2 Topping with Twisty Bread only $ Modern Mountain Inn (Previously Painted Buffalo Inn) 400 West Broadway Jackson, WY Papa Murphy Take N Bake Pizza Any location. 20% off listed rates from November 1, April 30, Excludes blackout dates. Mention IFSC when making reservation. $2 Off Any Pizza Limit 3/Visit. Any Idaho Falls Location. Must show Peaked Sports 70 E Little Ave Driggs, ID % discount for 2017/2018 ski Season. (excludes service and rentals) Must show Snow Eagle Brewing & Grill 10% off purchase. Must show PAGE 12

13 Splash 330 Cliff Street $3 discount on self-serve pet wash. Must show Teton Valley Cabins 1 Mountain Vista Dr Driggs, ID For details go to: West Side Yard Restaurant 31 West Center Street Victor, ID % discount on food purchase. Must show Yostmark Mountain Equipment 110 E Little Ave Driggs, ID Buy one snowshoe or cross country ski rental, get one free. Avalanche Awareness Part of our mission within the IFSC is to focus on keeping our community safe. This year, the club will be hosting a youth avalanche awareness training session as well as a general avalanche awareness informational session. These sessions are organized by the American Avalanche Institute and focus on both backcountry and resort skiing and riding. Don t forget that a lot of avalanches actually happen 'in bounds at ski resorts. Take the training and you will be better prepared for backcountry travel. This training covers learning how to read snow conditions, recognizing avalanche terrain and understanding rescue gear, etc. Youth Course: January 20, 2018 The youth course is a full day and is offered in conjunction with the Jackson Hole Trip at Snow King Resort. It will cover both inside and outside training. (Check IFSC website for updates). Avalanche Awareness Informational Night: December 4, 2017 The 9th annual avalanche awareness night will cover the fundamentals of snowpack, weather and terrain, as well as where to find usefull information regarding safety and planning. (See page 6 for details) The surrounding region is notorious for avalanches and we want to make sure everyone remains safe no matter where they venture. Please take advantage of these events. PAGE 13

14 Why We Count Our Lucky Stars It is getting that time of year when we count our lucky winter stars; a statement my kids started telling me around Halloween when it is certain winter is approaching. This positive attitude in what many others may label the awful season is in part due to my association and involvement with the Idaho Falls Skis Club. See, when I was a kid, I grew up in areas where snow was just something you saw in Bing Crosby and Bob Hope movies. My previous homes in CA, NV, SC, and VA never produced frost let alone snow. Winter was pretty much dominated by early darkness, dampness, board games, black and white television, and homework. Weekends were pretty much the same except you spent this time with your friends. The few real winters I did experience were in WI which is cold, grey, and flat. Then, in 1967 and at the age of 10 years, my Dad moved us one last time to Idaho. Little did I know how my life was going to change for the better. Somehow, the cold winters that we were warned about turned out to be a playground. Whether sledding down Sawtelle Mountain s road in Island Park (no longer possible), snowshoeing for the family Christmas tree, or cross-country skiing with my Scout troop, winter seemed to be dominated by blue skies, clean snow, and friendship. It was cold in those days with cotton socks, leather boots, and wool coats, but somehow we all suffered through it with anticipation for the next year. After college, a good friend asked me if I would take over her responsibilities as the social chairman of the IFSC. Little did I know how winters would become even more important in my life. It was through IFSC where I met many my friends and spent much time with my wife; it is where I discovered that Yellowstone in winter is even more beautiful than a Yellowstone in summer; and it is through this club where my four kids and four grandkids learned the thrill of Ally Oop s Alley. Fast forward 34 years later to a typical Targhee Soup day: 10 degrees, 15 mph winds, snowing, and 50 feet visibility - perfect snow conditions. It was last winter when my 11-year old son started to make some pretty big strides in his skiing ability. To my surprise, he and was able to get down pretty much everywhere we went. Whether around the Chutes, down the Bad, or through Happy Hunting, the great snow and poor visibility seemed to be even better as I shared my limited skiing knowledge with Austin. Standing at the top of the Gash, bushed, and about 3:30, we both decided enough was enough and that this would be our last run. As I always, I asked him if he was ready ~ ready to follow me ~ when he simply replied ~ No Dad, you follow me and then took off. That is when Irealized that my son would be forever fine without me just in case I left this mortal earth. Certainly, one of those proud father moments when you know your son is more of a man. And it was then that I also felt forever grateful to Maureen for asking me to assume her position at the IFSC. For without that involvement, everything would different... much different. So here it is, that time of year again, when we start thinking about snow, checking out old and new gear, and remembering past year's memories. I guess the point I hope to make is to encourage you to get involved with this club, invite friends to hit the hills, and create those unforgettable memories that only winter and snow create. It is one of those gifts Idaho provides to us every year. Marty Plum Far West Ski Association & Intermountain Ski Council All IFSC members are also member of the Intermountain Ski Council (ISC) and the Far West Ski Association (FWSA). These organizations provide a government body for ski clubs throughout the Western US. They also provide wonderful opportunities to become more involved in ski club activities as well as other trips. Therfore, all IFSC members are eligible for all the benefits listed on their websites as well as all the trips sponsored by ISC and/or FWSA! Visit and for more information Far West Ski Association Trips: Banff, Canada Feb 3-10, 2018 Alaska Iditarod & Ski & Snowboard Alyeska February 25 March 4, 2018 Les Trois Vallées Brides les Bains, France March 4 18, 2018 FWSA 2017 Convention, Boise, ID IFSC has participated in the FWSA conventions for many years, but this year was the first time it was hosted in Idaho!! IFSC board members attended the FWSA 2017 Convention in Boise, ID over the summer. We had great representation with 9 board members attending and presented on the topic of How to Build and Maintain a Successful Ski Club during the Snowsports Leadership Academy sessions. Did you know that IFSC is one of the largest ski clubs in the Western US? This provided a great opportunity to discuss new challenges and how to deal with them in the ever-changing world of technology and social media - yikes! We had a wonderful time meeting representatives from all around the West and we won the award for Best Website! Congratulations, Bev Novak! PAGE 14

15 Jackson Hole Lift Ticket Rates (ALWAYS available) IFSC price Regular Price Adult Ticket (ages 18-64): $82 $131 Young Adult Ticket (ages 15-17): $74 $131 Child Ticket (ages 6-14); $49 $79 Senior Ticket (ages 65+): $58 $105 Know the rules! Vouchers are only available in Idaho Falls at the locations shown below. Vouchers are exchanged for discounted lift tickets at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. JHMR vouchers must be purchased and used by IFSC members, vouchers may only be used by the name of the member on the IFSC card. You must present IFSC card and picture ID when purchasing and exchanging vouchers for lift ticket. Members may only purchase 3 vouchers per visit. Payment must be by local check or cash. (IMT accepts credit cards). Additional charge to cover credit card fee will be applied. Members can only redeem one voucher per day. Vouchers are non-refundable and non-returnable, so only purchase what you will use! Vouchers must be purchased ahead of time at one of the following locations: Idaho Mountain Trading, (208) Play It Again Sport, (208) Chevron on 17th and Woordruff, (208) Please note: Chevron does not sell memberships, only vouchers Grand Targhee Lift Ticket Rates IFSC price Regular Price Adult Ticket (ages 13-64): $72 $85 Junior Ticket (ages 6-12): $34 $37 Senior Ticket (ages 65+): $62 Blackout dates may apply. Grand Targhee discount lift tickets are available at the ticket window. You must present you IFSC membership card and picture ID. You do not need to buy vouchers ahead of time. PAGE 15

16 Idaho Falls Ski Club PO Box Idaho Falls, Idaho PRSRT STD US Postage PAID Permit No BOARD CONTACT INFORMATION President Robin Villarreal (208) (208) Vice President Marty Plum (208) Past President Peggy Hinman (208) Secretary Jacie Coleman (208) Treasurer/Vouchers Delisa Rogers (208) Website Bev Novak (208) Newsletter Bill Rogers (208) Alpine Director Diane Sermon Publicity/Social Media Alexandra Kepas Nordic Director Bob Lugar (208) (208) Nordic Area Director Mike Abbott (208) Social Director Jim Holman (208) Membership Sandy Bryan (208) Member Benefits Tai Crawford (208) Member-At-Large Ryan Jacobsen Ski Fest Deborah Wagner Board Contact Information Idaho Falls Ski Club PO Box Idaho Falls, Idaho