NASJA West News Archive

NASJA_West News
Volume 7, 2010 June edition / NASJA-WestNews keeps us in touch as we’re spread
across two time zones, 13 states and half of Canada.

GET WITH FACEBOOK! / from President Elect, Jerry Hoffman
Our NASJA-West Facebook page will not serve our organization unless members contribute with thoughtful comments, concerns, suggestions and feedback from other posts.
http://www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?gid=70942864152

Every member is encouraged to visit the page regularly and contribute thoughts and ideas. Let's make this
vehicle as a way to better communicate with each other as we work toward designing a more professional and meaningful webpage. Our facebook page is a starting place. Let's work together.

CORPORATE LIASON ANNOUNCED / from President Elect Jerry Hoffman
I'm excited to announce that Erin Grady of Deer Valley Resort in Utah will be the new corporate liaison to NASJA-West replacing Cindy Burr. Is there a specific job description? My sense is the position is to be a voice of reason, sounding board, and provide input from the corporate perspective on items that effect our organization and journalists specifically.

LAST MINUTE RENEWAL REMINDER / from Executive Secretary Vicki Andersen
All renewals must be IN MY HANDS no later than next Wednesday, June 30, or the member will not make the Directory and will be deleted from the web site. Also that is the deadline for all members to update their web site profile, which is what will be downloaded for the Directory.

Vicki Andersen,skicat1@comcast.net

KUDOS
Rochester, Minn. – Seattle, Wash. resident Risa Wyatt earned a prestigious Excellence in Craft award from the Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA), with recognition at OWAA’s annual conference in Rochester, June 13, 2010.

Wyatt was awarded third place in the newspaper division of a contest recognizing excellence in communicating the value, enjoyment and/or instruction of camping/backpacking, outdoor recreational travel, biking and/or climbing. Her submission, “China’s middle class takes to the slopes,” appeared in the
Philadelphia Inquirer on November 29, 2009.

Wyatt is a freelance writer whose work has appeared in Ski, Endless Vacation, Wine Enthusiast, Specialty Travel Index, Forbes Life, Boston Herald, Discovery, Sail, Sailing World, Seahorse, and Yachts and Yachting.

MEMBER NEWS
On June 6, bicycling enthusiasts from all over the country rode in the 19th annual “America’s Most Beautiful Bike Ride” around Lake Tahoe --.a 72-mile shoreline or a 100- mile century ride The event sold out with over 3300 participants.

America’s Most Beautiful Bike Ride - Lake Tahoe is produced and professionally managed by Curtis Fong
[who is a NASJA-West past president] of TGFT Productions / Bike the West, a 22 year member of the Bicycle Ride Directors Association of America (BRDAA) which sanctions the event requiring all participants to wear helmets. TGFT / Bike the West also produces Tour of the Carson Valley – Barbecue & Ice Cream Social on June 27; Tour de Tahoe– Bike Big Blue on September 12 and OATBRAN, “One Awesome Tour

Bike Ride Across Nevada”, September 26- October 2. For more information visit the website,
www.bikethewest.com or call 775/588-9658. E-mail: tgft@bikethewest.com

The ride was also the culmination of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s spring Team In Training (TNT) Cycle 100 national fund raising program where 1500 participants from 59 chapters and branches participated and expect to raise over $6.8 million dollars. Over the past 13 years, TNT has brought nearly 18,000 participants to Lake Tahoe and America’s Most Beautiful Bike Ride, bringing their total funds raised to $62 million dollars. Since its founding in 1949, the Society has invested more than $680 million in research to support their mission of finding a cure for Leukemia, Lymphoma, Hodgkin’s Disease and Myeloma and to improve the quality of life for their patients and families.

COMPETITION / Canadian paralympic gold medalist retires
CALGARY, AB (June 17, 2010) – Three-time Paralympian Lauren Woolstencroft (North Vancouver, BC) is retiring after 12 seasons with the Canadian Para-Alpine Ski Team.

Woolstencroft won five gold medals at the 2010 Vancouver Paralympic Games last March, making her one of the most decorated female athletes from any country at a single Winter Paralympic Games. She won a total of ten Paralympic Winter Games medals during her career.

Woolstencroft completed a Bachelor’s Degree of Engineering (Electrical) with Distinction from the University of Victoria in August 2005. She currently works at BC Hydro in Vancouver, BC as an engineer.

NEW GOLF COURSE
Kellogg, Idaho - The brand new Galena Ridge Golf Course at Silver Mountain Resort opened on June 20th.

"The incredible land form provided by Mother Nature allowed us to create tee shots over rugged terrain, wrap fairways around wetlands and tuck greens into wooded draws," said course architect John Thronson of Redmond, Oregon. "What makes the course unique is the amount of elevation change. Several of the first nine holes drop well over 120 feet from tee to green, one of which is an exciting 506 yard par 4 that drops 235 feet," continued Thronson. When the Galena Ridge Golf Course is completely finished, the total elevation change will be in excess of 450 feet and encompass over 350 acres of terrain.

Volume 7, 2010 May end of the season edition / NASJA-WestNews keeps us in touch as we’re spread across two time zones, 13 states and half of Canada.

Attention NASJA-West members. Is everyone aware that we have created a Facebook page with the intention of sharing thoughts, concerns and ideas? For the purpose of listing meetings and posting our production? To provide notices and membership updates? To perhaps find qualified potential members and actually make NASJA-West a more meaningful organization? Our reputation within the industry is not what it needs to be. We're perceived as just a ski club by many.

At this time, we have 31 people who have joined the Facebook page. I've posed several questions, but only one member has offered a posted opinion. The purpose is to raise questions, make comments and maybe even offer a suggestion or two.

Come on gang, get with it. Let's hear your feelings about NASJA-West. What we do right and what needs work. We've all heard complaints about what our organization should be. This Facebook page is a forum to state your feelings. It's a work in progress, with hopes of developing into something more professional and meaningful. Help get it off the ground rather than simply sign up for the group. I invite our incoming membership and programs VP to outline their plans, strategy or barriers being faced. Let's have our entire membership sign up and contribute. Click here for the link

Please scroll down our Facebook page and read all the comments and responses so far. That should provide a starting point for all members. Everyone is encouraged to participate. NASJA-West needs your input and feedback. Remember, this is a social network vehicle for us, as a forerunner for something more professional. Use it accordingly.

Shannon Lukens says: My 15-year-old son, Penn Lukens, has just received an invitation to train this summer with the U.S. SkiCross Team, and to represent the United States at the Junior World Championships in New Zealand in August. I can hardly stand it.

And he started a conspiracy. The conspiracy (and the commentary) are to enlist travel writers not to write about Arizona while the so- called immigration law is on the books and while the birther bill is making its way to the governor’s desk.

Jules asks, "Never heard about the birther bill? It states that to get on the ballot in Arizona, presidential candidates must prove to the Arizona Secretary of State that they were born in the USA."

Vail, Colorado…Ski Butlers Vail has won the Overall Vail Platinum Service Award for 2009 - 2010 ski season. Ski Butlers is the only ski shop in the Vail Valley to receive this award. This award is given out by the Vail Valley Partnership for exceptional customer service. Ski Butlers Vail has won this award for three consecutive years.

According to preliminary findings of the 2009/10 NSAA National Demographic Study, 57 percent of skiers and snowboarders wear helmets while enjoying the slopes at U.S. ski areas. Helmet usage among those interviewed nationwide increased 19 percent over the 2008/09 season, when 48 percent of those interviewed were wearing helmets. In comparison, only 25 percent of skiers and snowboarders wore helmets during the 2002/03 season. The annual Demographic Study is compiled from more than 130,000 interviews of skiers and snowboarders nationwide. The study also showed that:

87 percent of children 9 years old or younger wear ski/snowboard helmets;
75 percent of children between 10 and 14 wear ski/snowboard helmets;
70 percent of adults over the age of 65 wear ski/snowboard helmets. Info: www.nsaa.org

With a total of seven Olympic medals in tow, the U.S. Ski Team's Nordic combined superstars headed off to visit the troops as part of the 2010 Heavy Medal Tour in April. Throughout their time in the Middle East the Olympians visited different bases where they met servicemen and spent days getting an up-close look at day-to-day operations. The visit was about giving back to the troops

NASJA_West News Volume 7, 2010 Late April edition / NASJA-WestNews keeps us in touch as we're | spread across two time zones, 13 states and half of Canada.

Penn Lukens, son of Shannon Lukens, is the 2010 USASA National Champion in SkiCross. He won his age group at the competition in Copper Mountain earlier this month. It's a scary event for a mom to watch, but he did great, winning every one of his heats all the way up to the final heat. He's about 6'2" now, which is pretty big for a 15 year old. Last year, he took third, despite double ejecting twice in the finals. Let me know if you'd like a picture. Penn is a freshman at Steamboat Springs High School, and a member of the freeride team with the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club. Shannon has been a writer for OnTheSnow.com for 12 years.

Violet White passed away Saturday, April 17. I am sure that she is now skiing beautiful, fluffy powder with my Dad, Carson White, and all their friends. - Charlie White

To celebrate her life, we will be meeting at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 29 (Memorial Day Weekend), at the "Community Arts Center" in downtown Truckee at the corner of Church and School Streets. Wheelchair access is at the rear (North) end of the building. Parking, unfortunately, is PAID Parking, so bring quarters, or a credit card (no bills accepted by their machines).

Lunch will be provided at Noon; soft drinks, wine, beer, coffee, tea, will be available starting at 11 a.m. We need to know how many will be showing up to cook for; so, PLEASE reply with the number in your party.

Go to this link, then scroll down to the bottom of the page to open the information below "Violet White Information" (pdf files) http://www.donner-lake.com/carson.htm

Violet was the Carson White's long time sweetheart and Wife and mother of his children. She was a gracious lady and attended many of the Northern California / Nevada Ski Media events and US Ski Writers Association and NASJA. - Curtis Fong

On the exact same day that I read our region's most recent newsletter, I happened to be at Whistler during the opening weekend of the TELUS World Ski and Snowboard Festival. That same evening my bill was $209 for a dinner experience that was my idea, for which I volunteered, and which wasn't required as part of TELUS.

I mention this because I basically don't agree with the comments expressed by Snoshu Thompson in the last newsletter. Although I admit that free is always a great price, as the journalism field and the snowsports industry have changed, so have the costs associated with hosting events and meetings. After paying over $200 for this one dinner, a cost of $500 for an entire convention meeting doesn't seem so outrageous to me, especially when the location was Sun Valley.

We can lament all we want that the good old days are gone, but if we are going to be responsible journalists, then we need to live in the present and not the past. Social media is now an important element in our world, one that we are trying to understand and embrace.

Snoshu is certainly entitled to his opinion, and I respect his contributions over the years. And who doesn't miss how things used to be. But as one who has been involved in meeting planning for our organization for several years, I don't think expecting to be hosted for no cost is reflective of our current landscape. Everyone has a bottom line; take a look at yours.

A NASJA-West facebook page has been created to spark comments. Our newsletter is solely for our own information, not opinions from our members. Please direct our West membership to respond to some of the questions raised on the facebook page. Also note that it's a work in progress, and in time we will have areas to specifically post membership, meeting, benefits, links to our work, corporate corner and other elements to better define ourselves and perhaps even use as a recruitment tool. NSAA AWARD The National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) today announced that longtime Colorado ski industry executive Andy Daly is the recipient of the association's annual Lifetime Achievement Award for his notable ski industry involvement and contributions.

Daly's ski industry career began in 1970 when he moved to Colorado and took a job at Aspen Highlands for what was supposed to be only a couple of weeks. By the end of the ski season, Daly was completely enthralled with the Colorado Rockies and accepted a job as a ski patroller for the next season. Daly moved to Copper Mountain in the fall of 1972 and quickly advanced, serving as patrol director in 1973, mountain manager in 1975, VP of Ops in 1980, and was finally promoted to president and CEO in 1982. In 1987, Daly left Copper Mountain to start his own company, which reopened the Lake Eldora Mountain Resort near Boulder. In 1989, Daly was lured to operate Beaver Creek Resort in addition to Eldora, and also the Broadmoor Golf and Spa Resort in Colorado Springs.

In 1992, Daly was named president and CEO of Vail Associates Inc., the predecessor company to Vail Resorts. During Andy's tenure as president, the company acquired Colorado's Keystone and Breckenridge resorts, Heavenly in California, and Wyoming's Grand Teton Lodging Company. The company filed its initial public offering in February 1997. Daly retired from Vail Resorts in 2002 to start Gore Creek Investments. RENEWAL REMINDER ! Thanks for the renewal update. I'm writing this from Damascus, Syria, where I have some travel writing assignments ongoing. Walt Roessing

NASJA_West News Volume 7, 2010 Mid April edition / NASJA-WestNews keeps us in touch as we're spread across two time zones, 13 states and half of Canada.

Remember when we got PR releases from ski areas and they hosted us to lift tickets and more so we could check things out? I still get the releases... Our presence used to be appreciated because we got word out. But now with "social networking" and the Internet ski areas can be their own publishing house, they assume. For 41 years our family stayed close to home to devote two or three days a week from late November to early April mailing, broadcasting, finally Internet-ing reports on conditions and events. It was a job no one was doing out West at the time (1964). We were not overpaid. I still do stories and am a respected source for information. Respect doesn't pay $500 meeting fees. Soâ€¦. if we are not necessary any more, don't fill up our email with your "social network" stories of every item they can contrive, just the facts Mam.

President: Jerry Hoffman Communications: Harriet Wallis Membership: Randy Boverman Programs: Lynn Rosen & Steve Giordano

Read blogs about the Sun Valley Annual meeting on the NASJA.org site. And, April Russell, who hosted the Brundage pre-trip and joined us at Sun Valley, had ACL surgery recently. She got hurt on her way to the race course.

Internet Blogging: Members must meet three (3) of the following benchmarks for press membership: 1) have completed at least one year of blogging on a social media or new media website that allows response feedback; 2) be able to provide proof of income from a source other than PR firms, advertising agencies, or commercial organizations; 3) have completed at least four written, audio or visual updates per month (in season) that are editorial, not advertorial; 4) provide proof of at least 5000 page views per month.

There are a few changes with this year's renewal process. First, you must update your own information on the NASJA web site prior to June 30th. It's really simple. Go to www.nasja.org, then Login, then Update Your Information.

If you don't have Internet access, attach a brief (no more than 35 words) biography to your renewal and any other changes you wish to make. The reason for this is that information for the Membership Directory and all mailing/e-mailing lists is derived from the Web site.

The best thing to do is to click on the login button on the upper right of the home page. There is a link in bold letters which states: Don't know or forgot your logon or password?

The user can enter their e-mail address and their login and password will be emailed to them.

Here are the folks who are due for credentials review this year. Your submissions must be from the calendar year 2009, and preferred method of submission is electronically, but we always take hard copies. Renewal deadline is May 31.

Any questions, let me know. Vicki Andersen, NASJA-West Executive Secretary, phone/fax: 503-255-3771.

Ball, Lonnie Boverman, Randy Brown, Robert Cardozo, Yvette Castle, Ken Crezee, Brit Dehnel, Chris Doherty, Paul Dyer, Chad Frank, Lee Friedland, Lois Fullwood, Janet Gieringer, Leigh Goligoski, Bob Haggerty, Steve Harrelson, Mike Hooge, Andrew Huebner, Marty Irwin, Richard Kanter, Evelyn Leeth, Dan Masia, Seth Mishev, Dina Mohler, Chaco Naye, John Older, Jules Petterson, Jimmy Pfeiffer, Doug Robb, Brian Rodriguez, Roy Roessing, Walter Rosen, Lynn Schroeder, Peter Smith, Scott Thompson, Tammie Turner, Larry Unversaw, Martin Vournas, Dino Wallis, Harriet Walter, Claire Weatherly, Karl Wyatt, Risa Weinreb

Volume 7, 2010      April election edition / NASJA-WestNews keeps us in touch as we're
spread across two time zones, 13 states and half of Canada.

NASJA-WEST ELECTION / two year terms âˆ™ 2010 - 2012
Vote before April 15
You may vote for the candidates or write in a name.
     email: skicat1@comcast.net
fax: ;503-255-3771.

Candidates are:
President: Jerry Hoffman
Our new board recognizes the numerous challenges we face on many fronts and pledge to address these issues in the spirit of cooperation. To achieve success, we all must work together to recruit new members who qualify, deal with ever increasing expenses to create meaningful meetings and fam trips, and tackle the issues of new social media and corporate considerations. In the coming weeks, you will be asked for input in regard to the future of NASJA-West and our organization as a whole. Be prepared to submit your thoughts, comments, ideas and suggestions when requested to respond.

Many thanks for the leadership of outgoing President John Naye who has held the post for most of the 21st Century. We are working in a era of severe declining traditional media, and must define ourselves accordingly to effectively move forward. All members are encouraged to become more active in NASJA-West so we may become more of a factor in our beloved sport and industry.

Communications: Harriet Wallis
Serving in this post is a way to give back to NASJA and the industry we love. I'm open to your ideas and suggestions. Keep them coming. Member since 1985.

Membership: Randy Boverman
We know every organization is built on the strength of its members and NASJA has a great traditional base, but Snowports Journalism has been changing rapidly and I feel we need to actively address this change. I think we can do more to grow and modernize our membership.

I have experienced and adapted to dramatic change in my field of photography, and as a board member of ASMP (American Society of Media Photographers) we were able to grow our membership to help others adapt and grow as our industry changed. I have enjoyed membership in NASJA since 1998, and I would like a chance to put some time back into NASJA.

Programs: Lynn Rosen & Steve Giordano
I'm running for the NASJA-West Programs & Activities VP position together with my husband, Steve Giordano, not only to find a location for next year's Western Winter Summit but to explore possibilities of making adjustments to our meeting template in order to make our conferences more affordable for more members. We both, of course, always welcome any input from anyone out there. Lynn Rosen, NASJA member since 1995; Steve Giordano, NASJA member since 1989.

OMMISSION When Roger Leo was honored at the Annual Meeting with the Harold S. Hirsch award for his internet writing, he was applauded and congratulated in person by Rob Brown, publisher of OnTheSnow.com for whom Roger writes.

CORRECTION
The Harold S. Hirsch awards were underwritten by prize grants from the Salomon and Sport Obermeyer.

NASJA-WEST CALENDAR
2011 / March 2 – 6 (a 3 night meeting), Alyeska, Alaska. $600 members, $500 guests in the same room.
Planned to coincide with the start of the Ididerod. Post trip options will be available.

2012 / proposed for March 28 – April 1, South Lake Tahoe. $500 double occupancy. Skiing at Heavenly,
Kirkwood and Sierra at Tahoe.

2013 no dates yet / Mammoth.

NASJA_West News
Volume 7, 2010 March 20 / pre annual meeting edition / NASJA-WestNews keeps us in touch as we're spread across two time zones, 13 states and half of Canada.

Mitch Kaplan, free lance travel writer, NASJA secretary-treasurer, Harold Hirsch award winner, died on March 15 after a long battle with Myelodysplastic Syndrome. There will be no funeral according to Mitch's wishes. A memorial will be scheduled later. If you'd like to do something, please make a donation to your favorite charity.

Freelance writer and photographer Harriet Wallis (that's me!) earned Ski Utah's 2010 Excellence in Journalism Award. Along with writing the "Let's Go!" column for The Valley Journals and the cover stories for PSIA's instructor magazine, she's had 25 stories and 26 photos published this year and has demonstrated her passion for snow sports through many years of writing.

Soooooooo, who's willing to write a couple paragraph wrap of the pre-trip and / or the Sun Valley annual meeting? Hit reply and let me know. â€“ Harriet Wallis

Sun Valley Stages to provide bus service from Boise to Sun Valley and from Sun Valley to Boise during the NASJA Annual Meeting

Avis Rental Car will provide one-way service with no mileage charge or drop-off fee charge from and to Boise for a significant discount price of $80 plus tax each way. Please call (208) 788-2382 and identify yourself as a NASJA member.

Whistler is hosting more than 95 per cent of the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games including three sports (alpine skiing, biathlon and cross-country skiing) representing 62 of the 64 medal events.

Silver Mountain held its "extreme economic relief discount day" on March 4 with ticket prices at just $14.

Yes, Virginia. There is a free lunch. In another first in the world of ski and snowboard rentals, Rentskis.com has made renting gear at Vail Resort's five mountains (Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, and Heavenly) an even more irresistible deal. For every day that equipment is rented (in advance through the Rentskis.com website), renters will receive a $10 voucher for a free lunch at any of the five resorts on mountain restaurants owards the purchase of any meal. That includes casual dining like Maggie's in Breckenridge or the Gunbarrel Grill in Heavenly or it can be used for fine dining such as Game Creek at Vail or Beano's in Beaver Creek. This offer is good through the end of the ski season but reservations MUST be made by March 31. Info: Joan Christensen, JC Communications, 970-509-0710 (cell), jcc@rkymtnhi.co

Tahoe is largest flat water stand-up paddleboard venue hosting five races from May through September on the largest alpine lake in the country. Stand-up paddle boarding is an emerging sport with a Hawaiian heritage, and gave early surfers a higher viewpoint, increasing visibility of what was going on around them, such as incoming swells. Today boards are anywhere from nine to 18 feet with features such as padded decks, one to three urfboard-style fins for stability and equipped with a long paddle. In Lake Tahoe, stand- up paddle boarding is opular with crossover athletes, especially skiers and snowboarders, along with mountain bikers and runners, s it helps develop a strong core, essential for succeeding in just about any outdoor sport.

Mar. 24-28 -- NASJA Annual Meeting, Sun Valley, Idaho
March 2011 -- NASJA Annual Meeting, Alyeska, Alaska

Volume 7, 2010 February / Pre Annual Meeting edition / NASJA-WestNews keeps us
in touch as we're spread across two time zones, 13 states and half of Canada.

Brian Schott interviewed iconic ski legend Scot Schmidt for the winter 2010 issue of Whitefish Review, the non-profit art, photography, and literary journal based on mountain culture where he serves as editor and publisher. Schmidt talks about managing risks and staying in control on and off the ski slopes, as well as his new role at Montana's Yellowstone Club. Whitefish Review continues to gain national attention, recently receiving a starred review from Library Journal. (http://www.libraryjournal.com/article/CA6709259.html)

Any NASJA member who would like to receive a free copy, please email brian@whitefishreview.org.

Idaho Pre-trip / Register until Feb. 22 / Trip date: March 21 -24
Brundage, Bogus Basin, Soldier Mountain. Details: www.NASJA.org

Sun Valley Annual Meeting / Register until Feb 26 / Meeting date: March 24-28, Link from www.NASJA.org
$500 double occupancy; $650 single occupancy - Members and guests
$600 double occupancy; $750 single occupancy -- Corporates and guests:

Want to avoid the single room fee at Sun Valley? You must get a roommate BEFORE you register. Contact
Dino Vournas at: dino.v@sbcglobal.net

Sun Valley Stages to provide bus service from Boise to Sun Valley and from Sun Valley to Boise during the
NASJA Annual Meeting

Over the past six months I have made two trips on assignment to Italy and was assisted with helpful support and information provided by the Italian Government Tourist Bureau in Los Angeles.

My contact there--Emanuela Boni--is putting together a series of dinner seminars about Italy in cities in the western U.S., and would like to expand her database of qualified travel writers to invite to these seminars and future events. The announcement from her, pasted below, regarding a series of dinner seminars may be of interest to the NASJA membership. If you feel it's appropriate, I suggest including it in the next NASJA newsletter.

The Italian Government Tourist Board has scheduled a series of dinner seminars in some of the most
important cities on the West Coast and Texas, where it will host presentations of Italy, its territory and tourist
offer for media representatives, travel writers, journalists, travel agents and tour operators.

The following are the dates:
March 3 Albuquerque, NM
March 4 Scottsdale/Phoenix, AZ
March 8 Dallas, TX
March 9 Austin, TX
March 10 San Antonio, TX
March 11 Houston, TX
March 17 San Jose, CA
March 18 San Francisco, CA
March 24 Salt Lake City, UT
March 25 Denver, CO
April 13 Portland, OR
April 14 Seattle/Bellevue, WA

If you are interested in receiving an invitation, please email Emanuela Boni at emanuela.boni@enit.it

Italian Government Tourist Board
Director Western USA: Pompilio Fabrizi
12400 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 550
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Tel: 310 820-1898
Fax: 310 820-6357
losangeles@enit.it
www.italiantourism.com <http://www.italiantourism.com>

Intrawest cried foul about published reports over an impending foreclosure action and the company asserted that it remains in control of all its resorts after ads appeared in major newspapers announcing that some of Intrawest's lenders, represented by Wilmington Trust FSB, would conduct an auction to sell their interest in the company. The auction is scheduled to take place on February 19, while Whistler-Blackcomb hosts many of the events for the 2010 Winter Olympics.

Since that announcement, Squaw Valley USA has acquired The Village at Squaw Valley from Intrawest and a newly formed company, Panorama Mountain Village Inc., consisting of area homeowners and local business people, announced that it had entered into an agreement to purchase Intrawest's interests in Panorama.

The Squaw Valley transaction includes Intrawest's real estate and operational assets including 2 condo- hotels and commercial assets whose tenants include 6 restaurants, 20 retail shops and a spa. The Panorama purchase includes the resort's ski operations, half-ownership of the Greywolf Golf Course, all Intrawest's commercial operations, lodging units, and developable land.

Both sales come on the heels of Intrawest's sale of Copper Mountain Resort to Powdr Corporation as
Intrawest tries to pay down its debts.

The American International Group (AIG) has transferred ownership of Stowe Mountain Resort to its Chartis subsidiary which was formed in last year to take over AIG's property-casualty and general insurance business. AIG has had an ownership interest in Stowe since the 1940's, it spun off many of its assets and properties following a $182 billion federal government bailout and the company had said that it was going to sell the resort. But, according to the Burlington Free Press, Despite receiving what was described as many qualified offers for the resort, none were accepted and AIG opted to transfer ownership to the New York based subsidiary.

Property owners at 4 resorts, including the Yellowstone Club and Tamarack Resort, have sued Credit Suisse and realtor Cushman & Wakefield for $24 billion in losses and damages, claiming the banking giant attempted to defraud investors through its lending practices of inflating real estate values to earn fees and then foreclosing on the properties to take control of them below market value.

In May, while ruling in favor of Cross Harbor Capital Partners in its bid to wrest control of Yellowstone, a federal judge decried Credit Suisse's predatory lending practices but Credit Suisse denied the accusations and declared that it would "vigorously" defend itself.

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla.- Roush Fenway's race cars each carried a special decal honoring the life and cause of Olympic medalist skier and multiple sclerosis (MS) advocate, Jimmie Heuga, in the Daytona 500 race at Daytona International Speedway. Heuga passed away at the age of 66

Heuga, a college skiing teammate of Roush Fenway President Geoff Smith at the University of Colorado, was a bronze medalist in the 1964 Olympic games, but will most be remembered for founding "Can Do Multiple Sclerosis" (formerly the Heuga Center for Multiple Sclerosis) a national nonprofit organization that has served as a leading provider of innovative lifestyle emplwrment programs for people with MS and their support partners.

Mar. 24-28 -- NASJA Annual Meeting, Sun Valley, Idaho
March 2011 -- NASJA Annual Meeting, Alyeska, Alaska

Volume 7, 2010 Early Feb edition / NASJA-WestNews keeps us in touch as we're
spread across two time zones, 13 states and half of Canada.

At the recent SATW Western Chapter meeting in Lake Tahoe, three of our members grabbed awards from
the Photo Shootout. Gold portfolio: Lynn Rosen; Best of Show: Dan Leeth; Cultural Scenic: Lynn Rosen;
People: Steve Giordano; Other: Steve Giordano.

Vote / Until Feb. 15
It's that time of the season when we vote for our three awards that will honor members of the North American
snowsports community. Please click on the LOGIN button, log in, and then, click on the Click here to vote for
NASJA Awardslink. Read the nominees' biographies and vote for your choices.

Idaho Pre-trip / Register until Feb. 22 / Trip date: March 21 -24 Brundage, Bogus Basin, Soldier Mountain. Details: www.NASJA.org

Sun Valley Annual Meeting / Register until Feb 26 / Meeting date: March 24-28, Link from www.NASJA.org
$500 double occupancy; $650 single occupancy - Members and guests
$600 double occupancy; $750 single occupancy -- Corporates and guests:

Want to avoid the single room fee at Sun Valley? You must get a roommate BEFORE you register.Â Hit reply.
I'llÂ make a list. NASJA_WestNews@hotmail.com

Sun Valley Stages to provide bus service from Boise to Sun Valley and from Sun Valley to Boise during the
NASJA Annual Meeting

Wednesday: Registration, sign up for optional activities, rental equipment fitting, welcome reception

Thursday: Hosted breakfast, developmental seminar, lunch on your own, dine around.

Friday: Hosted breakfast, developmental seminar, lunch on your own, NASTAR race, tour of Snowmaking
system, dine around.

Saturday: Hosted breakfast, developmental seminar, lunch on your own, regional and NASJA meetings,
cocktail reception, dinner, awards.

Sunday: Hosted breakfast, Alyeska Ski Resort speakers (site of next year's Annual Meeting) ski, depart.

Fifteen NASJA members attended: John Naye, Jerry Hoffman, Randy Boverman, Brian Robb, Ed Kane, Denis Hall, Dino Vournas, Bob Goligoski, Diana Hunt, Claudia Carbone, Curtis Fong, Dan Giesen, Risa Wyatt, Peter Schroeder and Martin Griff.

Naye, president of NASJA-West, opened the member meeting session with a financial report that concluded that the region is in reasonable financial condition and currently has an approximate balance of $25,000 in its bank account. The amount includes an $8,000 fund left to it by the former NASJA Rocky Mountain Chapter with the understanding the money will be used for a charitable purpose in the future. Discussion was held regarding appropriate recipients, and it was decided to poll our members about possible charities and to then appropriate up to $4,000 for disbursement.

Naye also reported that the West region also currently has 80 media members, a loss of 10 press members from one year ago. Some new journalists joined NASJA-West during the year, but more left due to job transfers, lack of credentials and lack of interest. Corporate memberships increased from 47 to 58. This increase came about largely because of a change in the membership process making it easier and less costly for corporate members to join.

Hoffman led a spirited discussion of ski-snowboard industry changes and changes in the media landscape. It is becoming more difficult for NASJA to find resort sponsors for NASJA events in large part because of the economy. Many ski resort marketing departments have had their budgets "gutted" this season. Resorts also are increasingly requesting that trips include media only - no guests. Resort marketing personnel are increasingly concluding that their resorts are getting great benefits from on-line reports from bloggers. Very few bloggers are NASJA members and NASJA has not "vetted" them as to their journalistic credentials.

NASJA VP Dino Vournas discussed a possible revamping of the NASJA awards, and much discussion was held regarding giving awards posthumously. There was a general consensus that this should be avoided whenever possible.

ESWA President Martin Griff then discussed the Eastern region's efforts to enhance its credibility factor, and what it might mean to the future of NASJA. Simplistically, are we a group of professional journalists or a social club? There are proponents of both sides in the East, though it was noted that in the West we clearly have decided to be professional, as witnessed by this Winter Park meeting where no guests were allowed. Griff was thanked for his attendance and his commentary.

Naye adjourned the meeting after three hours of engaged participation and reminded members to thank
WP's new Communications Manager Mistalynn Lee for the resort's hospitality.

NASJA's arrival at Winter Park coincided with an SIA demo day at the base of the peak. Members were able to "demo" the latest in skis and other equipment. Ski icon Wayne Wong took NASJA members on a tour around the slopes. All NASJA members were flying down the tundra on new "active suspension" demo skis from Anton, an industry start-up based in Bozeman, Montana. Some loved the new technology, others found it a so-so improvement.

Speaking of SIA, the industry organization will be having its annual convention in Denver for the next 10 years. SIA and NASJA chiefs both expressed an interest in holding some future NASJA meetings in Colorado so that they can coincide with the SIA conventions.

Sign-ups for the upcoming annual NASJA convention in Sun Valley are progressing slowly with only 13 members on the list as of early Feb. NASJA expects a crowd of about 150 - 200 in Sun Valley.

The Winter Park trip was quite a success. Members awoke on the second day to find 4 - 6 inches of new powder and they were still finding "freshies" well into the late morning. The trip is expected to generate a number of stories for media members as the character of Winter Park is slowly evolving from a "locals" playground to a destination resort. Four new lifts have been erected in the last five years.

Mar. 24-28 -- NASJA Annual Meeting, Sun Valley, Idaho
March 2011 -- NASJA Annual Meeting, Alyeska, Alaska

NASJA-West News Volume 7, 2010 Jan 31 edition / NASJA-WestNews keeps us in touch as we're spread across two time zones, 13 states and half of Canada.

Thank you, NASJA members! It's always good to hear from you. I'm really glad it's easy to hit the reply button and fire something off to me. Keep your questions and comments coming.

I've had questions recently from a gazillion members -- mostly about the Sun Valley annual meeting. I try to respond to everybody pronto. But I don't have an inside track or a crystal ball to answer many of the things you'd like to know. But keep the flow between us going anyhow. It's good.

I sent a newsletter yesterday just so you'd have all the info - as we knew it then - all in one place. Now there are some changes.

NASJA is still working on a possible discount, but if you want to make your shuttle reservation now: Sun Valley Stages. 119 South Park Avenue West, P.O. Box 936, Twin Falls, ID 83303. Phone: 208-733- 3921; Toll-free: 1-800-574-8661; Fax: 208-733-3993.

NASJA's VP of Meetings Dino Vournas says, "As of now, Sun Valley will not allow members to register and pay the cheaper price without having a roommateâ€¦ people will have to matched up beforehand and then they can register when they have a roommate."

If you want a roommate, let me know and I'll make a list. Hey! I need a roommate too!Â

The Jules Older family is in New Zealand, where our daughter is about to give birth. We've had a birth of our own.

On the same day Apple announced the iPad, it app-roved our app, San Francisco Restaurants, Take II. It's roughly 25% bigger than Take I, with new emphasis on the area around the Moscone Center, where many San Francisco conventions are held... and where Steve Jobs birthed the iPad.

The iPad costs $499. San Francisco Restaurants still costs 99 cents. info: www.julesolder.com

...new journalist member Meri-Jo Borzilleri a freelance journalist from Bellingham, Washington, returning NASJA member Carl Filoreto, and returning Corporate member Schweitzer Mountain Resort. Their directory information can be found on the NASA web site.

Meet:at Boise Airport (BOI) by 3:30 p.m.Sunday, March 21. EDITOR'S NOTE: 3:30 is the new time to meet.
Cost: $150 per person, credit card or check
Ski Resorts to Visit: Brundage Mountain, Bogus Basin, Soldier Mountain
Cost includes: Transport, lodging, demo skis, lift tickets, several meals

Transportation: From Boise Airport to the resorts and drop-off at Sun Valley on Wed. March 24, in time for the Annual Meeting welcoming festivities.

Return transportation to Boise: You will be on your own for transport back to Boise on Sunday March 28, but options are being worked out.

Booking: Call or email April Russell-Brundage Mountain 208-634-4151 ext. 120 or april@brundage.com Have Ready: Your credit card, skier's info; boot size, DIN setting, ski preference, ski ability etc.

Other contacts: Kellie Kluksdal, Idaho Division of Tourism , Kellie.kluksdal@tourism.idaho.gov , 208-334-2470 ext. 2152 Dino Vournas-NASJA VP of Meetings, dino.v@sbcglobal.net

Deadline: February 15. Login, read the biographical sketches and vote. Here is the abbreviated ballot.

The CARSON WHITE GOLDEN QUILL AWARD honors an individual or individuals who have made a significant contribution to the advancement of snow sports in North America. Candidates: Stu Campbell Pres Smith Cal Conniff

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD honors an individual for a lifetime achievement in snow sports, including competition, mechanical, equipment, technique, technological advancement and other accomplishments. Candidates:

The BOB GILLEN MEMORIAL Award honors an individual NASJA corporate member for contributions to the advancement of snow sports through public relations and communications, either in a single achievement or a lifetime of effort. Candidates:

You need your user ID and password to log on to the portion of the site where you can vote.

Log on to the NASJA site: www.NASJA.org . Then, if you do not know your User ID and Password click on "Forgot Your Password" You will be prompted for your complete e-mail address. Enter it. If you are a current NASJA member and your e-mail address is in the NASJA database, your login ID and password will be e- mailed to you. Use these to login and access the "Members Only" area.

Midwest leads in membership retention. Only the Midwest has seen an increase in membership since 1999. .Hooray for us! Of course, it's easy to be up when you're starting with a small base. Here's more information.

Here are a few more factoids about membership in NASJA Midwest. They apply to the 1999-2000 until now:

Jan. 6-10, 2010 -- NASJA Interim Board Meeting, Alyeska, Alaska Feb. 2-5, 2010 -- NASJA-West Western Winter Summit, Winter Park, Colorado Mar. 23-28 -- NASJA Annual Meeting, Sun Valley, Idaho March 2011 -- NASJA Annual Meeting, Alyeska, Alaska

Volume 7, 2010 January 17 edition / NASJA-WestNews keeps us in touch as we're spread across two time zones, 13 states and half of Canada.

MEMBER NEWS
Brian Schott's interview with Alta's iconic President and General Manager Onno Wieringa appeared in Skiing's November issue.

ANNUAL MEETING & PRE-TRIP / Idaho
Registration is now open for the Annual Meeting scheduled for Sun Valley and the pre-trip to other fantastic Idaho resorts. Info: www.NASJA.org

VOTE / By Greg Snow, VP of Awards
Fellow NASJA Members,

It's that time of the season when we vote for our three awards that will honor members of the North American snowsports community. Please follow the link to our website (www.nasja.org), read the nominees' biographies and vote for your choices. It really is a very simple process. You have until midnight Pacific Time on Feb. 15 but please do it now while it's on your mind.

You are only asked to do three things as a member of NASJA: be a professional, attend an occasional meeting and vote in this election. Please, let's make this voting turnout 100%!

COMMENT / by Claire Walter
Open Letter to NASJA Colleagues from Claire Walter (original ESWA and for more than 20 years, RMSWA and NASJA-West): I just cast my vote for one of the two living nominees for the Golden Quill Award. The third is deceased.

I abstained from voting for a Lifetime Achievement honoree because not one of the three is actually still alive.

As I suggested to the Board numerous times when I was handling the NASJA Awards and after I relinquished that task, I believe that if the organization wants to honor the deceased, NASJA should institute a posthumous category.

The Golden Quill and especially the Lifetime Achievement Award should go to people who are still with us. So many pioneers, in the twilight of the years and careers, have come to NASJA annual meetings to accept our humble tribute - often the last in a chain of lifetime honors. Dead people don't show up at meetings to accept plaques or trophies - and I believe that their families rarely do either.

Awards to ski industry pioneers and contributors can be publicized to garner positive publicity for NASJA, and honors to living individuals always are more newsworthy than posthumous honors. If you have an opinion one way or another about our industry awards, please communicate your thoughts to the officers and board members.

NASJA TRENDS / By John LaPlante, Midwest NASJA Secretary
Here are a few tidbits that I found while burrowing through the NASJA membership directories of the last 11 years.

Since 1999 [the first year for which I have a directory), membership nationwide has declined 23 percent. Active membership has declined even more--30 percent.

What's behind the drop? Some of you probably have better ideas than I do, but some possibilities include the decline in print media, members losing interest in participating in and writing about skiing and related activities, members perceiving a decline in the value of NASJA, insufficient attention to recruiting new members, and increased scrutiny of credentialing.

What do you think? Is the decline in membership inevitable? Bad? Good? What, if anything, should NASJA members do about it?

Here's a bonus observation: The greatest decline in active membership came in the western region. The Midwest was the only region with an increase in membership.

About John LaPlante: For those of you who haven't met me, I've been a Midwest member since 2007. I'm a native Michigander, but I have lived in Columbus and Chicago, as well. Like Alice, now I live in the Twin Cities. Unlike Alice [Williamson], I'm primarily a snowboarder, though I have been known to step into alpine and nordic bindings from time to time. I have been to the national meetings at Crested Butte (2007), Bretton Woods (2008) and Lutsen (2009), and have found them very useful experiences.

USSA NEWS
Jan. 14 - Propelled by a record setting three wins in three days in Haus im Ennstal, Austria USA Today has named the U.S. Ski Team's Lindsey Vonn (Vail, CO) the Olympic Athlete of the Week .

Vonn, the 2009 World Champion for both downhill and super G, captured back-to-back downhill wins to continue her stranglehold on the Audi FIS Alpine World Cup downhill standings with a perfect record so far this season in the discipline. She then capped the weekend with a super G victory to further her lead in World Cup super G points. It was the first time an American, male or female, has won three consecutive times in as many days.

In addition, the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame, housed in the home of the NFL's Denver Broncos, has named Lindsey Vonn (Vail, CO) its 2009 Athlete of the Year on the laurels of a season that included two World Championships and three Audi FIS Alpine World Cup titles, including her second consecutive overall crown.

Volume 7, 2010 Mid January edition / NASJA-WestNews keeps us in touch as we're spread across two time zones, 13 states and half of Canada.

ANNUAL MEETING REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
Sun Valley registration is now available on the website at: www.sunvalley.com/nasja
Transportation options are being worked on. Stay tuned.

COMMENT / Ethics article from New York Times / forwarded by John Naye, NASJA-West pres
The Public Editor, Times Standards, Staffers or Not
By CLARK HOYT
Published: January 2, 2010
Mary Tripsas, an associate professor at the Harvard Business School, has been writing a monthly column in The Times called "Prototype," about corporate innovation, her academic specialty. Last Sunday, she highlighted the 3M Company's customer innovation center at its headquarters in St. Paul.

Today, an editor's note in the paper says that, had The Times known that 3M paid Tripsas' expenses to Minnesota in November, the column would not have been published as it was written. Tripsas violated a policy against accepting travel or anything else of value from the subjects of coverage. She will no longer be writing for The Times.

Last week, The Times parted company with Joshua Robinson, a prolific young freelancer who represented himself as a Times reporter while asking airline magazines for free tickets to cities around the world for an independent project he was proposing with a photographer.

And the byline of Mike Albo, another freelancer who was one writer of the "Critical Shopper" column, disappeared from the paper in the fall, after - separate from his work at The Times - he accepted an expenses-paid junket to Jamaica, organized by Thrillist, a consumer e-letter, and sponsored by JetBlue and other corporations.

These cases illustrate how hard it is for The Times to ensure that freelancers, who contribute a substantial portion of the paper's content, abide by ethics guidelines that editors believe are self-evident and essential to the paper's credibility but that writers sometimes don't think about, or don't think apply to their circumstances, or believe are unfair or unrealistic. Some writers do not read the guidelines carefully, and although they are encouraged to raise possible conflicts of interest with an editor, some don't tell and are not asked.

Transgressions are heavily chewed over on the Web, doing no good for the reputation of a paper trying to protect its integrity from even the appearance of improper influence. Tripsas' problem was uncovered by www.nytpick.com, an anonymous Web site devoted to critiquing The Times, and Albo's was revealed by Jeff Bercovici, the media columnist for DailyFinance, another online site. Robinson's case was brought to my attention by someone at an airline who was approached by him and his collaborator.

The standard freelance contract states, "You will not accept free transportation, gifts, junkets or commissions/assignments from current or potential news sources." Before being paid, freelancers must fill out a conflict-of-interest questionnaire. But Philip Corbett, the standards editor, said, "We haven't done enough," and he said top editors plan to discuss this week how to get greater compliance with the ethics rules, spelled out in a 54-page booklet that all contributors to The Times, staff and freelance, are expected to read and obey.

Despite all the precautions, the cases of Tripsas, Robinson and Albo show how differing views of ethics, a failure to read or remember the fine print and a failure to communicate can lead to embarrassment all around.

Tripsas, who accepts speaking fees from companies to share the findings of her academic research and conducts executive education at companies that pay Harvard for her services, now realizes that she was probably ineligible to write for The Times from the start. But the newspaper recruited her for the expertise she gained through her academic work, and she said she did not read the contract carefully or consider its full implications. "I should have," she said.

The trip to 3M was arranged before she began working for The Times in August, she said, and she wasn't thinking about a column when she flew to St. Paul. Instead, she and other professors were going to learn about 3M's customer-centered culture. Only after she saw 3M's innovation center did she propose a column to her editor, Patricia Kranz.

Tripsas said, "It should have computed that there might have been, from the journalistic point of view, a conflict." But from her point of view, she was doing academic research, as she normally did, and there was nothing remarkable about allowing 3M to pick up the $820 bill for air fare and a hotel. The money could just as easily have come from her Harvard research budget, she said. "It wouldn't have changed what I wrote," she said.

Tripsas made clear in her proposal to Kranz that she had visited 3M, but she didn't mention who paid for her trip. "It just didn't even occur to me," Tripsas told me. Kranz said the fact that a trip was involved never registered with her, let alone the question of who paid for it. "She and I both overlooked a thing we shouldn't have overlooked," Kranz said. Robinson, two years out of college and highly regarded by Times editors for whom he has freelanced, said that he never connected his Times work with the approach he made to airline magazines seeking free international travel in exchange for articles and photos. He said he called himself "a reporter for The New York Times" - which he is not - only to establish his "street cred" with those he was soliciting, and not to imply he was on the newspaper staff.

"It was an honest mistake," he told me. "To me, this was so far removed from anything I do for The Times, it didn't seem applicable."

This from the NYTimes: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/03/opinion/03pubed.html?scp=8&sq=ethics&st=Search <http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/03/opinion/03pubed.html?scp=8&sq=ethics&st=Search>

WESTER WINTER SUMMIT PERK / forwarded by Curtis Fong
Hey Snowsports Journalists,
Wayne Wong (my Brother from another Mother) is inviting NASJA West members to demo the latest technology in "suspension" skis... The Anton Ski. I am pasting his letter to me in regards to setting up a clinic and demo at our WWS at Winter Park.

Dear Curtis.
I am involved with a revolutionary new ski product called the "Anton Active Suspension System." It eliminates chatter and vibration of the ski via a suspension system much like that on a mountain bike or car. It is also the world's first real adjustable flex ski. You can set it in the stiff position for hard snow and aggressive GS type turns or in the soft position soft snow and easy short turns.

I would like the opportunity to present this radical new technology to NASJA following the Winter Park on Snow DemoPlease visit.www.AntonSkis.com.

Not only is this an opportunity to test ride the ever changing technology of ski equipment, but a great opportunity to interview and ski with THE legend of Freestyle from the 70's... Wong Bangers, Worm Turns Slow Dog Noodles, etc are all the moves that he innovated in the day. He is available to do a short Clinic on Tuesday evening and Demos on Wednesday morning.

Let me know your thoughts and if this offer can be added to our meeting agenda. It will be GROOVY! Best regards, Curtis Fong, tgft@bikethewest.com, Cell: 775/771-3246.

OBIT / forwarded by Claudia Carbone
It's with great sadness that I inform you that we've lost our friend and colleague, Charlie Meyers, who passed away this evening (January 5) due to complications from lung cancer. Charlie courageously battled his illness the past two years, largely in private, as was his wish. He has been in a hospice for little more than a week. Charlie was a beloved friend to all who knew him, and a giant in our business, a wonderful writer and reporter whose work graced the pages of The Denver Post since 1966. Simply put, he is a legend. He will be greatly missed by all of us who worked with him and especially those who were fortunate enough to know him. Read the whole obit at http://www.denverpost.com/ci_14131079

CORPORATE NEWS
"The Donner Party," a film, debuts at Sugar Bowl's Judah Lodge on Sunday, January 17th at 7:00pm. Filmed in part atop Tahoe's Donner Summit in 2007, the movie depicts the tragic tale of the infamous group of Sierra travelers, with critically acclaimed performances by Mark Boone, Christian Kane, Crispin Glover and Michele Santopietro. Originally titled "The Forlorn", the movie applies stunning cinematography to rather dark subject matter, which earned the film an R rating from the Motion Picture Association of America. "During the westward expansion of the 1840's", Director T.J. Martin writes, "a group of California bound emigrants, known today as the Donner Party, were trapped in the high Sierra Nevada Mountains by the heavy snowfall of an early winter. When food supplies run low, tempers flare between William Eddy (Clayne Crawford) and his employer William Foster (Crispin Glover) over how the remaining meat should be divided. When Charles Stanton (Christian Kane) returns with news of food supplies stockpiled along the trail leading to Sutter Fort, the decision is made to form a small group to reach California on snowshoes. After becoming lost in the mountains and out of food, they must resort to doing the unthinkable to survive." Info: Jaime Haddad, Resort Services Manager (530) 426-6720

Deer Valley Resort hosts the 2010 Visa Freestyle International World Cup, January 14 -16. More than 300 athletes from approximately two dozen countries will participate in the competitions. This World Cup marks Deer Valley's 12th year of hosting freestyle competition, including the 2002 Olympic Winter Games, the 2003 FIS Freestyle World Championships, 1999 Chevy Truck U.S. Freestyle Championships and seven World Cups (2000, 2001, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009).

Deer Valley's World Cup will be the second to last stop for the freestyle athletes (there will be one more World Cup in Lake Placid, New York) before the 2010 Olympic Winter Games. The U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) will announce its U.S. Freestyle Olympic team (aerial, mogul and ski cross disciplines) just after the Lake Placid event, on January 26, 2010 at Deer Valley Resort, cross disciplines) just after the Lake Placid event, on January 26, 2010 at Deer Valley Resort. Info: Emily Summers esummers@deervalley.com

California Winter Games March 11 - 14 in the Sierra Nevada for Seniors featuring winter sports competition (Olympic medal format) for men and women 50-years-old and up in five-year groups to include: Cross Country: 5k and 10k Nordic (Classic and Skating races), Nordic (telemark): Giant Slalom, Slalom, Dual Slalom, Snowboarding: Giant Slalom, Slalom, Dual Slalom, Downhill: Giant Slalom, Slalom, Dual Slalom A festive, colorful, action-packed Winter Carnival atmosphere for competitors, spectators, friends and family Dodge Ridge Wintersports Area, Pinecrest, California. Info: Director@CaliforniaWinterGames.org On.line registration and more details: www.CaliforniaWinterGames.org

NASJA_West News Volume 7, 2010 Happy New Year edition / NASJA-WestNews keeps us in touch as we're spread across two time zones, 13 states and half of Canada.

Larry Turner (www.larryturnerphotography.com) was among the photographers featured with photos in the December issue of The Atlantic (formerly The Atlantic Monthly). The piece is called A Winter's Tale, Squaw Valley Celebrates its Olympics, 50 Years Later. Larry is co-owner of www.Highonadventure.com (along with four other NASJA writers).

Tom Winter's side project The Carve Collective (www.carvecollective.com) has inked a deal with Kastle Skis to design theirSIA booth for the inaugural Denver trade show.

Carve Collective is a joint project between Tom Winter (Managing Partner) and David Shike (Lead Designer). The company creates lifestyle spaces forthe next generation of ski and snowboarders. In addition to partnering with Kastle to create a unique environment for the company's first trade show booth after the defunct brand was acquired from Benetton by Cross Industries and reintroduced to the North American market, Carve Collective has collaborated with clients on to create a variety of nightclub and restaurant interior spaces.

Carve is currently actively seeking resort partners to bring its unique blend of low cost, environmentally friendly lifestyle design solutions to the slopes. For more information about current projects, design portfolios or to speak with the partners, contact Tom Winter at 303-525-7767 or via email at tom@tomwintermedia.com

Registration deadline: Full payment of $160 is due in the NASJA-West office (11728 SE Madison, Portland, OR 97216-3946) by Saturday, Jan. 9.

Details: Specify if you need ski or snowboard rentals, (Wed-Fri). Lodging (no single supplement available - there will be multiple attendees in each unit). Meals as indicated, mountain tours, lesson/clinic. Maximum of 28 attendees (first-come-first-confirmed). No guests. Info about optional activities will be available at the Welcome Reception.

Cancellation policy: Cancellations received by Saturday, Jan. 23 will incur a 25% penalty, no refunds after that date.

Ground transportation: You are responsible for making your own arrangements. Suggestion: Home James (http://wridehj.com) 970-726-5060.

Proposed schedule: Tuesday, Feb. 2 Lift passes available only for those participating in SIA on-snow demo Check in at Zephyr Lodge (http://www.zephyrmountainlodge.com) by 6:00pm Welcome Reception w/ refreshments, time & location TBD

Wednesday, Feb. 03 ski/snowboard 4:30-6:30pm -- Membership Meeting, Vintage Hotel (utilize the Cabriolet lift)

The deadlinefor making reservations to The Homestead fam is rapidly coming due and nobody, other than me, has signed up. It's kind of disappointing when you spend time setting up a nice fam trip for the membershipto take advantage of and none have to date. I know this is a busy time ofyear, and the trip doesn't take place until late January, but deadline for reservations is Jan 4.

The Homestead is an undiscovered jewel among Midwest ski resorts. It's one of the most beautiful locations in theHeartland. Perched right on the Lake Michigan shoreline amidstSleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, it doesn't get much better, and it's free lodging and skiing. You won't find a better offer. As I've said before, The Homestead is a resort with the heart and soul of a fine B&B. It reminds you ofa small mountain village perched amid towering dunes.

If you look at the problems they are having in the East getting resorts to host them, and the problems the NASJA board is having finding resorts to host future national meetings, we are lucky here in the Midwest to have resorts that value our membership and willing to host us.

Please consider coming to the Homestead, enjoying their hospitality, and writing an article. You won't be disappointed, and the articles, once you experience the location, almost write themselves.-- Your humble VP of meetings, Mike Terrell

NASJA President Bob Cox says: "I have just returned from Sun Valley and they are committed to throwing an excellent party for NASJA, much as they did in 1998 when last we were there. As you know, Sun Valley and the state of Idaho rescued us this year after Tamarack went into bankruptcy. Despite the recession and business challenges, they are determined to show us their spectacular resort in an impressive fashion. Registration will open the first week of January for our annual meeting at Sun Valley March 24-28. You will receive details and instructions as soon as the website is up and operational." Registration deadline is scheduled for Feb. 26.

Cost. Press members and guests, double occupancy $500; single occupancy $650. Corporate members and guests, double occupancy $600; single occupancy $750. Kids will stay & ski free, with these limitations: Maximum of one kid per adult (two per room) and age limitation 15 and younger. The price does not include a lodging tax of about 10%.

Details.Most meals are covered but not all. You will likely be on your own for lunch each day. Accommodations will be at the Sun Valley Lodge and Inn. Transportation to and from Sun Valley Airport will be provided. Those who choose to fly via Boise or other airports will be on their own for transportation to/from Sun Valley, but our hosts are working on a special NASJA price with one of the rental car companies. It is about 2.5-hour drive.

The Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) recognized the Park City Chamber/Visitors Bureau with a Bronze Adrian Award for public relations excellence in the 53rd annual Adrian Awards Competition, the world's largest and most prestigious travel marketing contest. HSMAI will pay tribute to the Park City Chamber/Visitors Bureau during the annual HSMAI Adrian Awards Gala, attended by more than 1,000 hospitality, travel and tourism marketing executives, on February 1, 2010 at the New York Marriott Marquis. Craig@parkcityinfo.com; Stephanie@parkcityinfo.com (435) 658-9611 (435) 658-9609.

North Lake Tahoe pulls out all the stops to commemorate the 50th anniversary of hosting the 1960 Winter Olympics with the Olympic Heritage Celebration, January 8-17, 2010, at venues throughout the region. Pettit Gilwee, pettit@gilweepr.com

TAKE ACTION / VOTE
It's that time of the season when we vote for our three awards that will honor members of the North American snowsports community. Please follow the link to our website, read the nominees' biographies and vote for your choices. It really is a very simple process. You have until midnight Pacific Time on February 15th but please do it now while it's on your mind.

Directions: browse to the NASJA website at http://www.nasja.org. Login, and then click on the link to the voting page. Read the bios and VOTE! Thanks, Dino Vournas-VP of Awards

KUDOS
NASJA-West members Brian Schott and Larry Turner teamed up for a recent feature story in the New Hampshire Sunday News. Coming Home: A Western Skier returns to skiing birthplace chronicles Schott's time on the pre-trip to Loon Mountain last spring prior to the annual convention. It was the cover story of the travel section and featured 3 color photos by Larry Turner of the resort. The story and additional photos can be found at www.highonadventure.com.

REMEMBRANCE
We were very sorry to hear of another loss, of one of our Southern California Ski Writers, all whom we remember so well. Sadly, several years ago, we lost Ben Rinaldo, Burt Sims, more recently, Elmar Baxter. Now, Hal Roberts. We knew all of them through the past 30 years of owning and producing our shows.

Obviously, along with many ski writers of his era, Hal's sport kept him young, engaged in life and skiing remained an unforgettable passion! We loved the story his son Scott shared through NASJA. We aspire to carry on all of their enthusiasm for a wonderful sport that has changed so much, but still delivers joy and health in abundance.

With sincerest regards, Judy Gray & Jim Foster, Founders/Producers, Ski Dazzle Shows

WELCOME
Welcome new members Peter Bronski, a Boulder, Colorado-based journalist and author of Powder Ghost Towns: Epic Backcountry Runs in Colorado's Lost Ski Resorts. Welcome back Heavenly Valley and Sun Valley.

HOLIDAY VISITS STRONG
According to the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA), a random survey of several dozen ski areas nationwide revealed that skiers and riders showed up in numbers similar to last season's Holiday period, and in some cases, in record numbers. Some resorts are reporting visits up 40 percent over last year's Christmas Holiday period.

U. S. SKI TEAM
PARK CITY, Utah (Jan. 26) - Billy Demong (Vermontville, NY) and Lindsey Van (Park City, UT) headline a team of six nordic combined skiers and six ski jumpers named by the U.S. Ski Team to compete in the upcoming FIS Nordic Ski World Championships in Liberec, Czech Republic. The team includes four women ski jumpers who will take part in the historic debut of their participation in the sport at the World Championship level.

The inclusion of women on the World Championships program is yet another milestone in the more than decade long growth of the sport internationally for women. The USA has been a leader in its progress, which saw it being approved for World Championship inclusion by the International Ski Federation in 2006.

EVENTS & LANDMARKS
More than 300 athletes from approximately two dozen countries will participate in the Visa Freestyle International World Cup, Jan. 29 - 31 hosted by Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain Resort.

This World Cup marks Deer Valley's 11th Anniversary of hosting freestyle competition, including the 2002 Olympic Winter Games, the 2003 FIS Freestyle World Championships, 1999 Chevy Truck U.S. Freestyle Championships and six World Cups (2000, 2001, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008). This year's joint venue partnership with Park City Mountain Resort, along with the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association is in preparation for the 2011 FIS Freestyle World Championships.

Info: Emily Summers,Communications Coordinator,Deer Valley Resort, emily@deervalley.com, 435-645-6518. Paula Altschuler, Park City Mountain Resort, Communications Manager, paula@pcmr.com, 435-647-5410. Press Center at Deer Valley Resort, Beginning 1/27/09, 435-940-7001

Crested Butte Mountain Resort and the US Forest Service conducted two in-depth geological hazards investigations with the goal of determining the suitability of Snodgrass Mountain for lift serviced alpine skiing. These two studies are in addition to several other studies that have been conducted on the mountain going as far back as 1976 making Snodgrass one of the most studied ski mountains in the country.

CBMR will be refining it's Master Plan over the next several weeks to address concerns in the report expressed by the Forest Service and will then submit the plan to the Forest Service. The Forest Service has told CBMR that as long the plan addresses the geology concerns and stays within specified guidelines it will accept the Snodgrass proposal. Info: Michael Kraatz, VP Planning and Development, mkraatz@cbmr.com

Sugar Bowl hosts its first annual Environmental Awareness Day with activities that include the creation of a mural about the importance of keeping winter cool, raffle prize drawings for carpoolers and mass transit riders, sustainable food and beverage options, and even an environmentally-themed addition to the Switching Yard Terrain Park. Those who purchase Ski Green Tags for $2 will be entered into a raffle ticket for prize drawings including lift tickets and a new snowboard at the afternoon party.

Sugar Bowl, already known for its own extensive environmental efforts including resort-wide recycling programs and 100% renewable electricity via wind energy offset purchases, now aims to involve 4,000 skiing guests into the day's green festivities. Info: www.sugarbowl.com , (530) 426-9000.

The Special Olympic World Winter Games are scheduled throughout Idaho starting Feb. 7. More than 2,400 athletes from 107 nations will make the Games bigger than the Winter Olympics in Salt lake City in 2002 and in Torino, Italy in 2006. Eunice Kennedy Shriver put together the first Special Olympics in Chicago in 1968 with 1,000 special needs athletes from the U.S. and Canada. Info: diane.norton@tourism.idahogov, http://www.2009worldgames.org

On Jan. 20 the sacred Olympic flame lit up the peaks of the Canadian Rocky Mountains and in exactly one year , on Jan. 20, 2010, the flame will enter Banff National Park for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games.The year 2010 also marks the 125th anniversary of Banff National Park, Canada's first National Park and the third largest in the world. Info tulene@banfflakelouise.com, www.banfflakelouise.com

GOT NEWS?
Keep it short - real short - and send it to NASJA_WestNews@hotmail.com

WHO DUN IT
Harriet Wallis
Communications VP for NASJA-West
NASJA_WestNews@hotmail.com
801-576-0140

NASJA_West News
Volume 6, 2009 Early January edition NASJA-WestNews keeps us in touch as we're spread across two time zones, 13 states and half of Canada.

ANNUAL MEETING / Registration
Registration info not yet available.

ANNUAL MEETING / Early info from Frida Waara, NASJA Midwest President
Pre trip details are still in the works and those participating in a pre trip need to arrive in Minnesota on Sunday, March 15.

General meeting action starts in Lutsen, Wednesday, March 18 through Sunday, March 22.

NO post trips are planned for this NASJA gathering.

Best to book your flight into Duluth, Minnesota, airport code DLH.
Northwest posted the following base rates for travel 3/18-3/22.

LAX $380.47
SLC $390.70
SEA $342.32
ALB $378.60
EWR $241.86 -I can't even mush a dog team to Duluth for that price!
MQT $446.52 - btw, that most expensive rate is from my home airport

Fees for the meeting are $199 per journalist or guest, $299 per corporate or guest.

Get some rest. The vernal equinox will occur on March 20, which means at 47 degrees latitude expect 13 hours of daylight.

Trust me, Jim Vick will have every hour of your visit packed with adventure. Can't wait to have you singing in the sauna on the shores of Lake Superior.

PRE TRIP
OVERNIGHT DOG SLED ADVENTURE / For Price Call Jim Vick, 218-663-7281 ext. 1203 March 15-18, 2009

Ever dreamed of mushing your own dog team? Travel with veteran dog driver Arleigh Jorgenson www.dogmushing.com. For over 20 years he's been leading dog teams into the remote Boundary Waters canoe Area Wilderness. He supplies expedition tents, wood stoves and sleeping bags rated to -30F to keep you cozy camping along the trail for 2 nights. You'll dine on the finest wilderness cuisine - walleye, grilled steak, 3-bean chili, pasta dishes, and wild rice with cranberries.

Arleigh has been listed in The Ultimate Adventure Source Book as North America's top sled dog program. His trips have also been featured in Conde Nast Traveler, Men's Health, Destination Discovery, Boundary Waters Journal, American Fitness, Country Living, Outside and Disney magazines.

Includes:
Transportation from Airport and to Lutsen Resort
1 Night Hotel Accommodations
2 Nights Wilderness Camping and equipment
3 Days Mushing
Meals
Instruction & Trail Guide

PRE TRIP
BUILD YOUR OWN SKIS / Call Jim Vick, 218-663-7281 ext. 1203
March 15-18, 2009

Skis are one of the earth's oldest forms of transportation, now you can learn how to build your own. Discover the secrets of ski construction and the origin of ski design and function from Mark Hansen, North House Folk School's Ski Master. He learned to make skis from Marvin Salo, whose father was a master ski maker trained in the old Sami school of ski construction. His father's advice was "if you understand the wood, the wood will work for you." The course covers wood grain, bending wood, types of bindings, and information related to use and handling of these ancient tools of transportation. You'll leave this course with a pair of traditional birch skis custom-sized to your size and weight and ready to enjoy the back -country.

Includes:
Transportation from Airport and to Lutsen Resort
Welcome Reception at the North House Folk School
3 Nights Lodging
3 Days Course instruction
$150 materials fee

PRE TRIP
WILDERNESS RIM SNOWMOBILE TOUR / For Price Call Jim Vick, 218-663-7281 ext. 1203
March 15-18, 2009

Your tour begins crossing the rugged Sawtooth Mountains and lunch at Cascade Lodge in Cascade River State Park perched on the shore of Lake Superior. Refueled, you'll skirt the legendary Boundary Waters Canoe Wilderness Area to spend the night at Gunflint Lodge www.gunflintlodge.com. Expect a hot sauna and wild game feast when you arrive.

Tuesday you'll continue further up the historic Gun Flint Trail to Grand Portage Bay, the very tip of Minnesota. Spend the day exploring the northwoods and waterfalls, and visit the restored Northwest Company Depot trading post. Grand Portage Lodge www.grandportage.com will have your room and dinner ready and if you haven't tested your luck on the trail you can always visit the casino.

Includes:
Transportation from Airport and to Lutsen Resort
Three nights lodging
Snowmobile
Riding gear
Meals
Trail Guide

INCIDENT
Whistler BC, December 17, 2008 - Tuesday afternoon at approximately 2:30pm, a structural failure on tower 4 of the Excalibur Gondola caused the gondola to cease operation. All gondola cabins remained on the line; however a number of the cabins dropped approximately 30 feet with the sagging span, and two cabins hit the ground, injuring several people. Twelve guests were treated at the Whistler Medical Clinic and all walked out on their own accord later that evening. A total of 53 people were evacuated off the affected lower line of the gondola. The evacuation was completed by 5:51pm.

Several factors converged to cause the tower failure. The structure of the tower is such that two parts are spliced together. Water had seeped into the tower which had turned to ice with the recent extreme cold temperatures. The ice build-up caused the tower splice to rupture, an extremely unusual situation referred to as "ice-jacking".

Yesterday's evacuation of 53 people was completed within three and a half hours of the tower failure. "I would like to recognize the concerted efforts of the Whistler Fire Department, RCMP, BC Ambulance Services and Emergency Medical Services, in conjunction with the Whistler Blackcomb Ski Patrol, for an incredible response effort," says Forseth. "We are extremely thankful that no-one was seriously injured in this incident.

The Excalibur Gondola is a Doppelmayr lift, and was installed in 1994. A world-leader in lift design and manufacturing, Doppelmayr lifts are in operation throughout the world and their safety record is excellent.

Information about the Excalibur Gondola incident will continue to be available for guest and the media from: www.whistlerblackcomb.com.

GOT NEWS?

Keep it short - real short - and send it to NASJA_WestNews@hotmail.com

WHO DUN IT

Harriet Wallis
Communications VP for NASJA-West
NASJA_WestNews@hotmail.com
801-576-0140

2009 Archive

2008 Archive

2007 Archive