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NATIONWIDE SKI INFO
DIRECTORY - FEBRUARY/SPRING, 2002 - ARCHIVE
VOL. 15 - ISSUE 55- SKI AND LIVE YOUR LIVES ISSUE
| Editorials & Current News | Feature Articles | Technical/Instructional Features |
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Environmental Groups’ Tactics Face Scrutiny |
by Tony D. Crespi |
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Environmental Groups’ Tactics Face Scrutiny Publisher, Dave Leonardi The last thing environment groups needed was Tom Knudson developing a hard-hitting series about them for the Sacramento Bee. This was the same author that wrote the 1991 series "Majesty and Tragedy: The Sierra in Peril" that won him a Pulitzer Prize and endeared him as an insider, especially to the Sierra Club. Now in 2001, enviro groups were basking in the newfound glory of bashing the Bush Administration and raking in donations. Not since Reagan’s much-maligned Interior Secretary James Watt were these groups freely posing their threats and reaping billions of dollars in rewards. Knudson traveled to 12 states, conducted more than 200 interviews and examined "thousands of state and federal records." The series launched on Earth Day, April 23, 2001, with a banner report; "Movement’s Prosperity Comes at a High Price." Here are the first five paragraphs: "As a grass-roots conservationist from Oregon, Jack Shipley looked forward to his visit to Washington, D.C., to promote a community-based forest management plan. But when he stepped into the national headquarters of The Wilderness Society, his excitement turned to unease. "It was like a giant corporation," Shipley said. "Floor after floor after floor, just like Exxon or AT&T." In San Francisco, Sierra Club board member Chad Hanson experienced a similar letdown when he showed up for a soiree at one of the city's finest hotels in 1997. "Here I had just been elected to the largest grass-roots environmental group in the world and I am having martinis in the penthouse of the Westin St. Francis," said Hanson, an environmental activist from Pasadena. "What's wrong with this picture? It was surreal." Soon, Hanson was calling the Sierra Club by a new name: Club Sierra." It continues a few paragraphs later: · Salaries for environmental leaders have never been higher. In 1999 -- the most recent year for which comparable figures are available -- chief executives at nine of the nation's 10 largest environmental groups earned $200,000 and up, and one topped $300,000. In 1997, one group fired its president and awarded him a severance payment of $760,335. · Money is flowing to conservation in unprecedented amounts, reaching $3.5 billion in 1999, up 94 percent from 1992. But much of it is not actually used to protect the environment. Instead, it is siphoned off to pay for bureaucratic overhead and fund raising, including expensive direct-mail and telemarketing consultants. · Subsidized by federal tax dollars, environmental groups are filing a blizzard of lawsuits that no longer yield significant gain for the environment and sometimes infuriate federal judges and the Justice Department. During the 1990s, the U.S. Treasury paid $31.6 million in legal fees for environmental cases filed against the government. · Those who know the environment best -- the scientists who devote their careers to it -- say environmental groups often twist fact into fantasy to serve their agendas. That is especially true in the debate over one of America's most majestic landscapes: its Western evergreen forests. A 1999 report by the U.S. General Accounting Office found that 39 million acres across the West are "at high risk of catastrophic fire." Yet many groups use science selectively to oppose thinning efforts that could reduce fire risk. Knudson documents all of these claims with charts, graphs and detailed explanations. His second day disclosure (Mission adrift in a frenzy of fund-raising) illustrates many of these groups’ false statements about whales, otters and wolves used to raise dollars. Many Western resorts have experienced similar tactics with regard to the lynx (related article, page three) or boreal toad. Whether it was protests and then the horrific eco-terrorist fire-bombing of Two Elk Lodge, vandalism related to Vail’s 800-acre expansion; or a lawsuit blocking eight-acre proposed increase to Wachusett Mountain in Massachusets, these groups have targeted your ski industry. All the while, the fact still remains that ski resorts occupy one-tenth of one-percent of National Forest Land As customers of ski resorts that are constantly under attack from these groups, you have a right to know why your daily lift ticket prices have been increasing. Some of this increase pays for the volumes of studies and permit fees needed to comply with national, state and local environmental laws. Then, when the permits are obtained after years of study and compliance, some “environmental group” sues the resort and other governing agencies. All this occurs while the seemingly naïve protectors of the Earth and defenders of the wildlife are amassing nearly $10 million a day. (That’s correct, a day!! Figures reported in Knudsen’s work indicate “environmental groups” received $3.5 billion –with a “b”- for the year 1999.) Knudson reports in a follow-up on May 3, 2001, that based on his series the House Resources Committee announced it planned to hold hearings to examine "environmental fund-raising techniques and other matters," according to the committee chair, James Hansen (R-UT). Committee member Richard Pombo (R-CA) claimed, "What most of these groups are – are fund-raising machines. They don’t really care if they solve a problem. Their interest is maintaining the battle because that is what maintains their organization." Some groups had noble beginnings and still promote fair, reasonable causes and solutions. But today the all-inclusive anti-growth agenda is fueled by the same big business methods they claim as their enemy, and they're very big, $3.5 billion worth in 1999, as previously noted. I believe Knudson’s series is a must-read for every skier and anyone who is ever contributed money to a so-called “environmental group.” It can be found online at www.sacbee.com/news/projects/environment. To print the online version with charts, etc. may take a little time, but the knowledge gained is worth the effort.
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ENVIRONMENTAL MOVEMENT EXPOSED EWING, NJ (compiled from press reports) – On the heels of an extensive report on the raising antics of all of the major “environmental groups,” (related Editorial on page six) comes several reports of lynx fur being planted in national forest lands. It appears as though five federal wildlife biologists planted the fur belonging to a Canadian lynx in two national forests in Washington. The hair was planted on “rubbing posts” that were established in Wenatchee and Gifford Pinchott National Forests to determine if these regions were lynx habitats. Since Canadian lynx are protected species in the United States, evidence of their presence would halt human use of these regions. The hair strands were planted during the 2000 sampling season, and if not uncovered, the results could have been far reaching. According to the “Case of the Phantom Lynx,” an editorial in the Rocky Mountain News in late December, “Once a rare species has been linked to an area, after all, officials have to take comprehensive measures to ensure that it thrives. In the case of the lynx, for example, officials might have to take a look at the impact of motorized winter recreation and possibly even skiing.” It goes to report, “McGinnis [Congressmen Scott McGinnis, R-Colo.], who is chairman of a subcommittee on forests and forest health, naturally wonders whether other lynx samples collected for the lynx recovery survey were also frauds…” Remember that in 1998, eco-vandals destroyed Vail’s Two Elk Lodge and other mountaintop structures in opposition to Vail’s Blue Sky Basin expansion. The reason for their protests was that someone thought they might have seen a lynx foot print some ten years earlier in the vicinity. And The Nation (1-10-02) reports, “‘The discovery of this problem underscores a long-standing concern I’ve had over these Endangered Species Act studies,’ says James V. Hansen, R-Utah, chairman of the House Resources Committee and a vocal critic of the Endangered Species Act. ‘To me, this revelation calls in to question all studies that have been done over the past eight years.’” The five federal employees, three Forest Service and two Fish and Wildlife, have been “reassigned”. They claim they submitted the fur to test the accuracy of the DNA lab. But The Nation continues, “Others though, see something more nefarious in the scientists’ actions. Some claim that the scientists were trying to falsely establish the presence of lynx in the two national forests so as to restrict logging, mining and recreational uses. Mr. Hansen …wants harsh punishment to be meted out because the suspect data, if used to impose restrictions on certain land uses, had the potential he says, ‘to devastate the economies of entire towns and counties.’” At least two ski resorts are located in the forests: Stevens Pass and Mission Ridge, both in the Wenatchee National Forest. Here are some other headlines that have appeared regarding this story. From the Jacksonville Daily News, 01-08-02: “LYNX COUNT FRAUD HURTS ENVIRONMENTALISTS; Fishermen and property rights activists have long-charged that environmentalists jiggle data and even injure animals in order to justify limitations on popular activities. Revelations that federal biologists introduced fake evidence that the endangered lynx is present in some forests support such charges.” And from the Denver Post, 01-04-02: “LYNX PROBE LEADER BELIEVES BIOLOGIST TRIED TO COMMIT FRAUD; A leader of a lynx survey that has foundered on accusations of fraud believes a federal biologist was trying to tamper with the study. The official says that at least one of the Fish and Wildlife biologists was trying to fool him into thinking a planted sample of lynx hair was real.” That’s not all. The Washington Times reported on January 16, 2002, that “Hairs from a grizzly bear rug were sought legitimately as part of a control sample study of the rare creatures along the (Washington state) Canadian border.” More info from published reports can be easily obtained by simply conducting a Yahoo search online and use the words “planted lynx fur.”
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“MASTER THE MOUNTAIN” PROGRAM CONTINUES TO ROLL WITH SUBARU CHERRY HILL, NJ - Subaru's Master the Mountain is open to the public and full of free instruction and giveaways. There will be instructors on hand to conduct free one-hour mini-lessons and Learning Lane instruction, patrollers to guide NSP Insiders' Operations Tours, and hosts to assist in sign-up at the Subaru Central Tent. It’s a fun day; please call the participating mountains, listed in the schedule, for more details. For more info on Subaru's great all-wheel drive vehicles, visit SUBARU’s web site. SUBARU'S "MASTER THE MOUNTAIN" 2002 PROGRAM
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SNOW MONSTERS FOR KIDS WHO LIKE TO SKI or SNOWBOARD DURANGO, CO -- Have you ever seen a snow tiger that likes to ski and snowboard? What about snow snakes, powder pigs, mogul gophers, blizzard babies and snowboard beavers? They're all Snow Monsters and you can find them at ski resorts across North America. Snow Monsters are the brainchild of Jack Turner (Sirdar; Durango, Colo.) the creator, writer, producer and part-time stunt tiger. Turner does both the skiing and snowboarding for Snowball the snow tiger, the Snow Monsters lead character. “The project started when I was writing songs for my kids,” explains Turner. “The next thing I new we were making our first film for kids and it took off from there.” Snow Monsters blossomed into a mini-industry involving more than a hundred ski resorts and thousands of schools. Snow Monsters products include two children’s films, coloring books, a CD/audiocassette narrated by Picabo Street, trading cards, plush toys, and apparel. Snow Monsters also supplies customized children’s Internet content and activities to resorts. Likewise, many resorts also use the full-sized costumed characters to entertain kids and their families. Even celebrities have gotten into the act. Aretha Franklin performed as Mother Nature and sang the Grammy-award winning hit, “Respect,” in the film, “The Snow Monsters Meet Mother Nature.” More than 25,000 video copies were distributed to elementary schools and youth programs to encourage children to respect the environment. Anyone interested in Snow Monsters products can purchase them at resort retail shops or shop online at by logging on to snowmonsters.com.
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ON THE SNOW... CHRONICLES ROAD TO OLYMPICS ORINDA, CA - There’s only one place on the web to get details of how North Americans are faring in their quest for Olympic Gold. The road doesn’t begin in Salt Lake in February, and it lasts much longer than the Games themselves. It’s underway now. That’s why those who care about snowsports – and you wouldn’t be reading SKIER NEWS if you didn’t – have been clicking to Paul Robbins’ “Winter Olympics” column found on OnTheSnow.com, the web site with complete centralized snowsports information. Robbins is covering events leading up to his seventh Olympic Winter Games. Once the competition begins, he will be handling cross-country and biathlon analysis and commentary exclusively for OnTheSnow.com, NBC and MSNBC. A full-time freelance writer living in Weathersfield, Vt., he has covered the U.S. Ski Team and countless World Cup alpine, Nordic and freestyle events since 1978. He has worked for ABC and CBS at previous Olympics in addition to ESPN and Turner Sports at non-World Cup ski events. With the World Cup and pre-Olympic events underway, Robbins is chronicling the rough road to a spot on the rosters. His column is updated every Friday with the latest news from the alpine camps (gates, etc.), freestyle (moguls and aerials), snowboarding, cross-country, Nordic combined, jumping and biathlon. Robbins will provide an afternoon update for OnTheSnow.com each day at the end of snowsports competition during the Games. It will become the one place to turn for the results-in-a-capsule. And you can catch the Olympic spirit right now at www.OnTheSnow.com. SET YOUR TRAVEL PLANS WITH OnTheSnow.com ORINDA, CA - Once upon a time, we had to sift through endless resort brochures before finding the perfect package that met our family’s needs. No more. Just by clicking to www.OnTheSnow.com, the oldest and largest snowsports web site, we can get literally thousands of travel options in just seconds. “Our lives are too busy and too complicated these days to have to plan our trips resort by resort,” says AMI Group President Rob Brown. AMI publishes OnTheSnow.com. “We’ve done the work and make it simple to plan the trip that is exactly right for every individual.” The web site has an extensive database of vacation offerings from ski and stay packages to just lodging at ski resorts in every alpine state. Visitors can select to view by resort or state to quickly find the information they are seeking. Veteran travel and ski journalist Mitch Kaplan sorts through the listings and those from his own sources and offers a daily Hot Travel Deal on the site. Those who look for bargains have learned to check out Kaplan’s feature every day. “OnTheSnow.com has become the centralized web site for all skiers, because they can find travel, lodging, regional news, snow conditions and much more all in one place,” Brown says.
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BRECKENRIDGE INCREASES VACATION VALUES BRECKENRIDGE, CO - A favorite with regular Breckenridge guests, the Ski Free/Stay Free Package is perfect for early or late season visits to Breckenridge. With a base area of 10,000 feet at Peak 8 and skiing upwards of 13,000 feet, Breckenridge ranks as one of the country’s highest resorts. The elevation and location create a distinct early and late season snow (and snowmaking) advantage, allowing the resort to routinely operate for six months each season. When guests call to book Ski Free/Stay Free with Breckenridge Central Reservations (toll free) at 1-877-864-0869, they receive an additional night of lodging and an extra day of free skiing. Ski Free/Stay Free prices are based on a minimum of three nights’ lodging and three days of lift tickets during Early and Powder season or four nights lodging and four days of lift tickets during Value season. Ski Free/Stay Free is offered throughout Breckenridge’s lodges and hotels; the prices listed below represent a few examples. Ski Free/Stay Free Package Value Season Deals Jan. 2- Feb. 28 (Based on four nights, per person, double occupancy)
Ski Free/Stay Free - Powder Season Deals April 7- April 14 (Based on three nights, per person, double occupancy)
Taxes and applicable fees are not included. Some restrictions may apply. All rates subject to change without notice. “PERFECT 10” Vail Resorts’ Perfect Ten ticket gives guests 10 days of skiing or snowboarding at Breckenridge and its company brethren for $299. The Perfect 10 allows vacationers to ski 10 days at Breckenridge, Keystone, Vail, Beaver Creek and Arapahoe Basin for $299 throughout the 2001-2002 season. Children ages 5-12 can ski 10 days for only $149. The Perfect 10 is non-transferable; at least one ticket must be used prior to January 31, 2002. Other restrictions apply. TAKE A CLASS, GET A FREE PASS – LEARN-TO-SKI PACKAGE AT BRECKENRIDGE INCLUDES FREE SEASON PASS Breckenridge is offering new incentives in the sport of skiing and snowboarding; a season’s pass for the 2001-02 season upon completion of the resort’s special learn to ski (and ride) offer. The package includes three rentals, lift tickets and learn-to-ski lessons. The lessons are non-transferable and don’t have to be taken consecutively. The package is designed for first-time skiers and snowboarders; the season pass earned at the end of three days is also good at Keystone and Arapahoe Basin. For more information on the Breckenridge program, call 1-888-LRN-2SKI. To find out more, or to easily book your trip, log on to Breck’s web site or call 1-877-864-0869 and ask for your great deal. AFTER SKIING, LET THE NIGHT BEGIN... DINING, NIGHTLIFE, SHOPPING Now here's an area in which Breckenridge doesn't merely shine - it dazzles. Let your palate be your guide, and let the dining palette color your eating experience. There's Szechwan, Mandarin and Hunan Chinese and sushi. You’ll find the usual home-style, burgers, salads, vegetarian, BBQ, brewpub, steaks and ribs. There’s also wild game, organic, continental, Northern Italian, pizza and subs, pasta, Southwest, Native American, bar food, Mexican. Most settings are casual and rustic; some are fine dining in elegantly appointed rooms; some combine the elements for casually elegant. Prices range from modest to moderate to higher. The restaurant directory in the Breckenridge Vacation Planner, found in all better hotel rooms, lists most of restaurants. Nightlife and après-ski are two more of this resort's finer points. Choose from cozy little bistros where you can dine and sip, to outrageous dance floors where you can dip and slide - and a whole spectrum of nightspots in between. Cocktails, dancing, music - big names or low key, country and western, rock 'n' roll, reggae, jazz, blues, alternative and juke box. Several clubs bring in national recording artists, and several feature local artists who, like Jim Salestrom, have numerous albums and CDs to their credit. For shopping, few places beat Breckenridge for diversity. More than 100 stores beckon you inside with their wares, from kicky boutique items to off-the-beaten-path books. You'll also fine a trove of haute couture and hot cuisine, fanciful T-shirts, great ski and sports apparel, both fine and costume jewelry in hundreds of designs, keepsakes and mementos, sports equipment and accessories, antiques, toys, home furnishings and accessories, music, chocolate (!), sunglasses, Christmas ornaments, leather goods and fishin' poles. So cut loose and sound the battle cry or stroll casually from shop to shop. Visit www.gobreck.com for more information on Breckenridge Resort, Colorado.
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THE CANYONS OF UTAH - WHAT'S NEW FOR 2002 PARK CITY, UT - The Canyons is proud to announce the following new upgrades, facilities, skiable terrain, and general improvements to better serve and accommodate its guests. DREAMSCAPE AREA EXPANDS WITH NEW LIFT This season The Canyons once again expanded its terrain by adding another lift in the Dreamscape area. The fixed-grip triple chair will be located between Dreamscape and Peak 5, providing access to beginner/intermediate terrain and spectacular views. This expansion gives skiers access to several new trails and more than 25 new acres. CABRIOLET It's never been easier to get to the slopes of The Canyons. Skiers can now enjoy a scenic ride on The Canyons Cabriolet. The open-air gondola takes them from the parking area to the all-pedestrian Resort Village Center in just three minutes. By keeping vehicles away from the center of The Canyons, guests can better enjoy the natural beauty of the resort. The Cabriolet opened for operation in December of 2000 and is one of only two in the nation. SKI AND SNOWBOARD LEARNING AREA The Canyons continues its commitment to first time skiers with the opening of a new learning area. Just behind Red Pine Lodge, surrounded by pines and aspens, there is a quiet, gentle slope - perfect for beginners at The Canyons. First-timers need not worry about sharing the slopes with advanced skiers and boarders. Now children and adults will be able to relax and enjoy the experience of learning how to glide on snow. The Canyons realizes a guest's first experience may well be their most important. The new learning area is designed to make the first time a good time. IMPROVED TERRAIN PARK When skiers visit main terrain park at The Canyons, they will now have a direct route. The resort has designated one chair lift for one area. The new location of the park is on the front face of the resort, accessed by Red Hawk lift. The Canyons will also be adding additional rails, bringing the total to eight. The Canyons now has the most rails of any resort in Utah. Terrain Park Manager Eric Brown is dedicated to grooming and "tweaking" the park's features on an ongoing basis. In addition to the terrain park, The Canyons offers a plethora of natural terrain features, including five natural halfpipes. PARKING Guests at The Canyons will be pleasantly surprised with a newly expanded and paved parking area. The main parking area, conveniently located near the entrance to the resort, is serviced by the Cabriolet. The paved area will accommodate approximately 1000 vehicles and will be divided into several sections to make entering and exiting the parking area more convenient for visitors. SNOWMAKING As The Canyons continues to grow so does the ability to provide a deep base of snow throughout the season. This year, The Canyons expands its snowmaking capacity to include areas near Dreamscape. Now snowmaking equipment will be used on Harmony, one of the longest runs at the resort and the primary path taking skiers and snowboarders from Dreamscape to Tombstone. For more info, please call 1-877-766-9464, or explore www.thecanyons.com. OLYMPIC MYTHS DISPELLED... Contrary to popular belief, the 2002 winter season will be one of the most affordable and exciting times to visit The Canyons in Park City, Utah PARK CITY, UT - The Canyons is excited to be an integral part of the Olympic celebration. The Canyons will have the excitement of the Olympics without the hassles. The Canyons, free of any Olympic events, will be in full celebration mode. Visitors will have free access to live viewing sites of the Games, on-snow high-energy performances, live music in the forum and fireworks. The Canyons encourages guests from out of state to come visit the resort before, during and after the Games. 2002 will be a great time to discover the amazing skiing The Canyons has to offer. The biggest resort in Utah is ready for the biggest party on the planet and wants you to experience The Canyons and the celebration. Additional reasons why a trip to The Canyons is a must for 2002:
For more info, visit www.thecanyons.com or call (toll free) 1-877-766-9464.
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Opening Day with Great Snowfall Was Just the Beginning DURANGO, CO - Durango Mountain Resort and Destination Durango have organized new air service to Durango-La Plata County Airport. Continental Express, regional air carrier to Continental Airlines, has begun serving Durango from Houston with year-round daily direct jet service. American Airlines expanded the Dallas to Durango winter service to year-round operations through their regional affiliate, American Eagle. According to Bob Kunkel, Senior Vice President of the resort, "The expansion of American Airline service, and the addition of the Continental Express service are mutually exclusive. But, together they are part of our tourism and economic development plan for year-round direct access from Durango’s top four regional markets of Dallas, Houston, Phoenix and Denver." There are 16 daily non-stop flights from Albuquerque, Dallas, Denver, Houston and Phoenix – all great connecting hubs for major airlines as well as the aforementioned local markets - so now, either online or through your travel agent, access to Durango has never been easier. (Even easier is one call to Durango Central Reservations to book the entire package, just dial 1-800-962-4458.) CAN THE Total Adventure Ticket BE ANY MORE TOTAL? The innovative Total Adventure Ticket" at Durango Mountain Resort has been improved upon for this season with expanded activities and options for upgrades. The basic premise is the same: The TAT" allows the holder of any four-day or more pass to exchange one day of skiing for an alternate activity. This year, however, additions can be made to the Ticket to adapt to each person’s wants and needs throughout a ski week. It is also good for discounts at local participating activities and retailers. THE SIX PACK WAS JUST THE BEGINNING On the heels of last season's added Purgatory Village Express six-pack, whisking skiers and boarders to the summit in just six minutes, winter improvements for this season have continued. They included preliminary cutting of lift lines for the new and relocated Chair #4, allowing beginners to loop near the top of the old chair and advanced skiers and boarders direct access to the backside. Durango Mountain Resort will spend $2 million this year on capital improvements. The skiing at Purgatory has always been outstanding. Perhaps no other Colorado ski resort has so many surprises. The more you ski at Purgatory, the more the mountain opens its warmth and friendliness to you. You can learn to ski on gentle trails; cruise the seemingly endless number of “blue” intermediate trails; or find your way to the steep runs and moguls for the thrill rides of your trip. Purgatory’s quantity and quality of dry, light snow makes for great conditions on either the groomed or ungroomed runs. DURANGO SPRINGS TO LIFE AT NIGHT Mountain towns are known for playing just as hard after dark as before, and Durango is no exception. With more watering holes than you could visit in the space of a week, most within a ten-block radius in old downtown, it’s like trying to pick out a movie — action, adventure, drama, comedy, there’s something for everyone. At Durango Mountain Resort the festivities start at Purgy’s and Shaker’s, while down the road is a favorite local hangout, The Olde Schoolhouse Cafe. Once in town, what you’re after decides where you go: Steamworks Brewing Company (voted “Best Brew Pub in Any Ski Town” by SKIER NEWS ) has locally handcrafted beers, pub fare, and is the kind of place you can throw peanut shells on the floor. Gazpachos touts great margaritas, a cozy atmosphere and green chili that will ‘light you up’. Lady Falconburgh's Barley Exchange is a great place for the whole family - serving lunch, dinner, & late night fare. Joel’s has a great atmosphere, an extensive martini menu and sectioned rooms for semi-privacy. The El Rancho is the local pool bar, sporting a Western touch, stiff drinks and salty popcorn. The Office, located in the Strater Hotel, is an exceptional new social establishment designed for guests seeking beautiful turn-of-the-century surroundings, fine wines, "spirits" and coffee beverages in a smoke-free environment. For live music, check out the San Juan Room, Scoot'n Blues, Carver's Brewing Company, Steamworks Brewing Company or The Patio. AMERICAN EXPRESS CARDHOLDERS ARE SPECIAL AT DURANGO MOUNTAIN RESORT At selected times of the year, special ski and stay packages are available. By calling 1-800-962-4458, using the source code SKIER and using your American Express Card, you can stay slopeside for just $95 per person, per night. This is based on three nights lodging and three day lift ticket. (It’s valid most of the ski season except the usual holiday periods and subject to availability, so grab your AmEx card and call soon!) For more info, log on to theDurango web site or call 1-800-962-4458.
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SALT LAKE CITY - FOUR REASONS WHY IT MAY BE THE WORLD’S MOST PERFECT SKI DESTINATION SALT LAKE CITY, UT - Salt Lake’s early settlers certainly didn’t envision a winter sports paradise when they founded the city. But a unique combination of geologic, climactic, social and economic forces have combined to create what may be the world’s greatest ski destination. Just a 40-minute drive from the Salt Lake City International Airport, four world-class ski resorts are nestled in Salt Lake’s Big Cottonwood and Little Cottonwood Canyons. Alta Ski Area, Brighton Ski Resort, Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort, and Solitude Mountain Resort each have a distinct ambiance and character. But the four resorts all share a unique mountain range, and have some features in common. Six other world-class resorts are less than an hour away. Combined, the Salt Lake area resorts offer better snow quality, variety of terrain, easy access and value than any other ski destination in the world. SNOW QUALITY Utah’s "Greatest Snow on Earth" brag isn’t just a catchy marketing phrase. A lucky combination of geologic features makes their champagne powder the driest, softest, most skiable snow in the world. In fact, national skier surveys consistently rank Salt Lake’s resorts number one for snow quality. And the snow in the Cottonwood Canyons is not only light and dry; it is also piled high. Salt Lake’s Cottonwood Resorts receive more than 500 inches (13 meters) of powder every year – more than any other resort in the Rocky Mountains. Salt Lake is nestled between a unique high desert region known as the Great Basin and the western rim of the Rocky Mountains. As storms travel over the Great Basin, they push cold fronts in the jet stream. When storms hit the mountains around Salt Lake, the jet stream forces the storms to rise quickly and drop moisture at very low temperatures, creating Utah’s famous powder. "Scientifically, the thing that plays the biggest factor in snow quality is the temperature," explained Dr. Jim Steenbeurgh, a meteorology professor at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. "In the Cottonwood Resorts, precipitation falls after a cold front has moved through. So the temperature, when the snow actually forms its crest level, is very cold." The Great Salt Lake also plays a role in what locals term "the lake effect." Small storms sometimes get trapped in the Salt Lake Valley and repeatedly pick up water from the Great Salt Lake. As the clouds spiral over the Rocky Mountains, they dump powder into the Cottonwood Resorts, and then spiral back to the lake for more moisture. VARIETY OF TERRAIN The Cottonwood Resorts offer a combined total of 6750 skiable acres served by 33 lifts. Together, they provide almost 50 percent more terrain than Aspen / Snowmass, Colorado, and almost 60 percent more terrain than Vail, Colorado. Yet each resort offers a unique type of terrain, ranging from the European-like peaks to groomed family runs through small glades of aspen. "As a watershed area for Salt Lake County, the Cottonwood Canyons retain a rustic ski atmosphere that hasn’t been spoiled by over-development, " said Annie Skeem, marketing coordinator for the Cottonwood Resorts. MOST CONVENIENT SKI DESTINATION IN THE WORLD No other ski destination offers the convenient access of Salt Lake. Travelers on both the East and West Coast can take morning flights and be on the slopes by noon. The Salt Lake City International Airport is just nine miles from the city center and approximately 30 miles from the Cottonwood Resorts. The greater Salt Lake area is home to more than 1.6 million people, and offers all the amenities of a major American city, including more than 17,000 hotel rooms and more than 1,000 clubs, brewpubs and restaurants. New for the 2001 and 2002 ski seasons, the Cottonwood Resorts will offer a variety of interchangeable lift tickets to make a ski vacation in the Cottonwood Canyons even easier. For the first time ever, Alta and Snowbird in Little Cottonwood Canyon have combined forces to create Utah’s largest ski area, and third largest area in the United States with one joint lift ticket, the Altabird pass. One canyon over, Solitude and Brighton have combined to offer a multi-area pass in Big Cottonwood Canyon called the Solbright Pass. The Cottonwood Resorts also offer a multi-area voucher program for travel agents, tour operators, and groups. VALUE "The Cottonwood Resorts have always been a good value," said Eric Thompson, Director of Winter Sport Tourism for the Salt Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau. "Salt Lake resorts work hard to offer an exceptionally high quality on-mountain experience at a reasonable price." Lift ticket prices for the Cottonwood Resorts will range from $38 to $68 for the 2001/2002 season. For some travelers, ideal lodging may mean a five-star hotel with every amenity. Others may be interested in a historic ski lodge or on-mountain condominium. No matter. "Salt Lake offers thousands of lodging options, which makes it easy for skiers and boarders to find accommodations that fit their budget, " Thompson said. “ It also gives people the option of riding a different resort every day, while only unpacking once." Each of these resorts promises a longer ski season as well as higher lifts, steeper terrain, closer access, and deeper powder. For more info on Salt Lake City, you can log on to the “Ski the Cottonwoods” web site, or please call 1-877-752-4386.
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SPORTS EXPRESS LESSENS AIRLINE CHECK-IN DURANGO, CO — Traveling skiers and snowboarders schlepped more than 57,354 tons of their winter sports equipment to America's slopes last season. To put it in perspective, that weight is the equivalent of: * 327,757 Marlon Brandos after enjoying a midnight snack, or * All the gold in Fort Knox times a factor of 11.4, or * 12,745 Asian elephants, or * More than 367 times the weight of the Statue of Liberty, or * 458,832,000 Quarter-Pounders with Cheese Why are people lugging this amount of gear to the mountains? Wouldn't traveling be a lot easier if your sports equipment were already there? Sports Express arranges for skis, snowboards and other sports equipment to be delivered door-to-door from wherever you are to wherever you're going, either one-way or round-trip. Worry-free travel Having sports equipment delivered eliminates the hassles of lugging bulky items around on a vacation, and the risk and uncertainties of checking sports gear as airline baggage. Sports Express - working in association with FedEx, UPS and other trusted shippers - guarantees that equipment will be at any destination prior to arrival. Deliveries can be arranged online at SportsExpress.com or by calling Sports Express toll-free at 1-800-357-4174. The web site provides online booking, instant price quotes, 24/7 delivery tracking and travel cases. At the call center, travel concierges offer personal service and keep travelers informed every step of the way. Airlines charge for skis Two major trends make Sports Express' service such a good idea. First, there are the hidden costs of flying with your gear. Airlines charge up to $80 per bag each way for items exceeding their "free baggage allowance," generally two checked pieces and a small carry-on per passenger. Skis and snowboards can be checked, but they count toward the baggage allowance. Winter travelers take note: the airlines are enforcing baggage restrictions this season, so even if you haven't been charged on previous trips, you might be unpleasantly surprised at the ticket counter this season. The bottom line: if you travel with two bags plus your skis or board, you'll face up to $160 in round-trip excess baggage fees. There also are no assurances that checked items will arrive on time or undamaged. Traveling light The second trend is a new "bag-the-baggage" attitude among savvy fliers. Winter vacationers have discovered what business travelers have known all along: it's more enjoyable to travel without being burdened by lots of luggage. "Traveling light is the new vacation mindset, and Sports Express makes it easy to go places without being weighed down by sports equipment," says Ken Stone, vice president of Sports Express. "The ultimate worry-free vacation starts when you know your gear is already there." It's affordable Sports Express rates vary by travel distance and delivery priority - and they are far less than excess baggage fees. For example, Sports Express delivery rates from New York City or Boston to many Western resorts (Vail, Jackson Hole, Aspen, Park City or Sun Valley) range from about $36 for ground, $42 for express saver three-day air to $48 for overnight service. Want to know the specific rates from your town to your destination? It's as easy as one, two, three. The web site, SportsExpress.com has a "quick quote" feature that provides instant delivery prices across the U.S. First, log on and type in hometown and destination Zip codes. (If you don't know a Zip code, there's a handy search button that locates Zip codes by city name.) Next, enter the number of skis or boards you're traveling with. Then type in your arrival date or use the handy pop-up calendar. In a few seconds, several delivery options will appear, and you can simply choose whichever option meets your budget and travel plans. Online booking is fast, easy and secure - and you can schedule your return delivery at the same time. So... what’s the math? Do skiers really carry 114.7 million pounds (or 57,354 tons) of skis and snowboards on vacation? You bet! Here's were the numbers come from: The National Sporting Goods Association estimates that there are 11 million snowsports participants. The National Ski Areas Association says overnight visitors comprise 47.4% of America's skiers. Divide 11 million by 47.4; that equals 5,214,000 - or the number of individual ski visits to destination resorts. Multiply this figure by 22 pounds, the average shipping weight for skis. That equals 114,708,000 million pounds or 57,354 tons. Now do the math. * While Marlon Brando's girth is legendary, it is the subject of speculation. A charitable estimate would be 350 pounds plus the midnight snack. * Fort Knox contains 147 million troy ounces of gold, and 14.583 troy ounces equals one pound. So there the depository holds 10,079,606 million pounds of gold. * A good-sized Asian elephant weighs 9,000 pounds. * The Statue of Liberty has 62,000 pounds of copper skin and 250,000 pounds of steel skeleton. * The Quarter-Pounder with Cheese weighs, well, a quarter pound. Regardless of stars, bars, pachyderms, statues or burgers, there's a lot of gear being carried from Point A to Point B and back. Wouldn't it be easier if Sports Express took the lug out of luggage? For more information, please call Sports Express at 1-800-357-4174 or visit SportsExpress.com.
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SHERATON'S FOUR POINTS OFFERS COLORADO CONVENIENCE MINUTES AWAY FROM FAMOUS RESORTS SILVERTHORNE, CO — One of the travel items most skiers want is convenience. Perhaps no lodge is more convenient to great skiing than the Sheraton Four Points in Silverthorne. Located on the free bus route, you can catch a ride to Keystone, Copper, or Breckenridge right out of your door. Vail is only a 40 minute drive away. Breakfast is served at the hotel and a Village Inn is a short walk away. For apres-ski, dinner, or sports at the bar, an Old Chicago is located in the hotel an elevator ride away from your room. For more info, please call, 1-800-321-3509.
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VAIL’S VALUE DEALS = SPRING SAVINGS VAIL, CO -- Vail is the number one ski area in North America, offering guests an incomparable winter experience. As the largest single-mountain ski area in North America, Vail offers guests 5,289 acres of skiable terrain found within three distinct mountain experiences: the front side, the legendary Back Bowls and the new Blue Sky Basin. With diverse terrain, great discounts and unique amenities – it’s a great time to visit Vail. Ski Vail for Less Than $32 Per Day Vail’s Perfect 10 allows vacationers to ski 10 days at Vail or its sister resorts Beaver Creek, Breckenridge and Keystone, and Arapahoe Basin, for less than $32 a day. The multi-day lift ticket program rewards guests who ski early and often. Early, because it must be used at least once before Jan. 31, 2002, and often, because it includes up to 10 days of skiing, which can be used consecutively or non-consecutively throughout the season. An adult Perfect 10 sells for $319, and a child (ages 5-12) Perfect 10 is $159. Valid all season with the exception of Dec. 21, 2001 through Jan. 5, 2002. Additional restrictions apply. The Perfect 10 is available at any Vail, Beaver Creek, Keystone or Breckenridge ticket window. Learn To Ski – Three Adult Lessons for the Price of One This season Vail and Beaver Creek are making it easier for adults to take to the mountains with its special First Time Series. Participants get three adult ski or snowboard lessons for the price of one. The offer includes a three-day lesson, beginner lift ticket and rentals. Price is $135 at Vail and $145 at Beaver Creek Nov. 16-Dec. 13, 2001, and April 7-14, 2002, or $145 at Vail and $155 at Beaver Creek Jan. 15-Feb. 12, 2002. Days must be used consecutively. Participants must be 15 years old or older. Skiers who complete the program will be given a coupon good for three more lessons for the price of one at the next ability level. Golden Gliders Intermediate Ski Program Golden Gliders is a new, specially designed three-day program for intermediate skiers ages 55 and up that will be offered at Vail and Beaver Creek this season. Participants receive tailored instruction while sharing a unique mountain experience with their peers. The weekly program is available Tuesdays through Thursdays throughout the winter. Price includes three consecutive days of instruction and costs $315 (value season), $345 (regular season) and $360 (peak season is Dec. 26, 2001 to Jan. 5, 2002. and Feb. 15 to April 6, 2002). Participants may purchase lift tickets at a discounted rate. Stay In Vail For As Low As $35 Per Night Stay in the heart of Vail’s Lionshead Village for as low as $35 per night with a special early and late season lodging offer at the Vail Landmark Properties. Choose from fully equipped condominiums just steps away from the Eagle Bahn Gondola. Prices begin at $35 per person, per night April 7-21, 2002. For reservations, please call 1-888-222-9440. Adventure Ridge Is Headquarters for Unlimited Family Fun Featuring The Thrill Sled Adventure Ridge is Vail’s on-mountain activity center located at the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola at Eagle’s Nest. This non-skiing activity center caters to kids of all ages with activities such as lift-served tubing, snowmobile tours, ski-biking, ice skating, snowshoe tours, laser tag and the kids’ snowmobile track. The newest offering at Adventure Ridge is Thrill Sled Adventure Tours. The sleds have a hand activated hydraulic brake system and four independently suspended skis. Adrenaline junkies can sign up for a tour that takes them down the mountain at night – head first – from Adventure Ridge to the bottom of the Eagle Bahn Gondola. Kids also can give Mom and Dad the night off to experience Adventure Ridge on their own through the weekly chaperoned Night Owl program. The Beat Goes On Into The Night Vail is known for the world-class ski experience on the mountain, but the ski area truly comes to life when the lifts close with live music, nightclubs, dining, free weekly street parties and more. From apres ski acoustic guitarists to bands on the verge of making it big, music has always been a major part of Vail’s nightlife scene. Edwin McCain, The Dixie Chicks, Sarah Maclaughlin, Yo Yo Ma and G. Love and Special Sauce and many others made stops in Vail during their rise to fame. Take A Day Off To Rest And Rejuvenate at a Vail Spa After a few days on the slopes, take a day off to reinvigorate and rejuvenate tired muscles and bodies after hours on the slopes. Unique, full-service spas have become vacation destinations and there are many to choose from in Vail. Try a hot stone massage at the newly renovated Aria Spa at the Vail Cascade Resort & Spa, or relax with the signature Nature, Body, Spirit treatment at the Vail Mountain Lodge. In-room treatments also are available through bodyWorks. Please log on to Vail’s web site and get the latest lodging discounts in the “Cool Deals” section. If you prefer, please call 1-888-222-9440.
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THE GUIDE TO SKI TUNING FOR THE PERFORMANCE EDGE by Technical Editor, Tony Crespi "Many people don't understand that tuning has a significant effect on performance. If you don't tune it, a ski won't maximize its design," notes Mike DeSantis, product manager for Volkl Skis. He is a highly knowledgeable technician who tuned skis in the 1990's for such elite racers as Picabo Street and Kristina Koznick. Here's the point: A tuned ski helps making edging on hard conditions more manageable, eases glide and ease of turning, and generally makes the overall skiing experience more enjoyable. On top of that, it makes the ski perform consistently over a wide variety of conditions. "Keeping them in shape helps tune you to the technology," says DeSantis. "More than ever tuning is the link between success or a hateful experience.” "When you use good tools it can be fairly painless and quick," emphasizes Tim Mullen, director of marketing for Reliable Racing, one of the premier suppliers of ski supplies to coaches and racers throughout the U.S. Of course, as someone in frequent contact with coaches and racers from resorts throughout the country, Mullen remains on the edge - if you pardon the pun - of equipment maintenance. From summer clinics at Mount Hood in Oregon, a bastion for racers, to clinics for the Professional Ski Instructors of America, Mullen continually is refining his knowledge of skiing and tuning. "The sharpness of the edge directly relates to how a ski performs. With a round edge a ski slips and chatters," adds Sun Valley Ski Tool's Jim Vermillion, another industry supplier whose Strawberry Files (an aggressive file often preferred by World Cup tuners), and Base Edge Beveling Tools are popular with many technicians. Sound interesting? Worried about the complexity? Here's good news: Modern skis are dramatically improved and contemporary tuning tools can make the task manageable. With tools from places the like of Reliable Racing (1-800-223-4448) and Sun Valley Ski Tools (1-800-741-3985), the task can be confronted with relative ease. In fact, to help, we outline tuning tips (and tools) for novice, intermediate, and advanced technicians. You're still worried. You hear that things such as beveling are complex. Let's de-mystify key points to start. Beveling? Essentially, modern skis do not come with completely flat base and side edges. Beveling involves setting edges at angles. For those new to the concept, side bevels impact edge hold: base bevels seem to effect ease into and out of the turn. The problem is how much. Generally, most skiers find a one-degree bevel on the base and side edge enhances performance. "Most factory specifications are one degree on the base bevel. Side bevel is also pretty consistent at one degree," explains Tait Wardlaw, of Dynastar Skis. "Most go to the shop with a one-degree base bevel and one-degree side," echoes Volkl's Desantis. "Most people over-tune the base edge. If the ski is new, you never want to re-file the base edge until it’s really worn away! Most shops just need to sharpen the side and add wax and de-tune the tip and tail. Truthfully, with a tuning kit - which can cost as low as $50 - you can maintain a ski with relative ease and minimal fuss. On the other hand, left untuned, skis can perform about as well as an old car, with four flat tires, left at the bottom of a pond. Here’s a Basic, Advanced, and Black Diamond Guide. Welcome to The Ski Tuner's Clinic: The Basic Guide To Edge Maintenance 1. Wipe your skis daily after use. ("People who skate wipe regularly too!" notes Wardlaw.) Wiping your skis minimizes corrosion on the edges, and helps remove harmful chemicals and pollutants, which can damage the edges and base. "If you put them on a car, the damage is done by the time you get home. Binding covers don't cut it! Ski bags do!" emphasizes Mullen. 2. Like sharpening a knife, keep edges smooth and sharp. If you do nothing else remove the burrs with a diamond stone after you ski. After all, ski edges often begin to exhibit burrs after even a few runs. Fortunately, manufacturers offer a range of tools that can easily and quickly help maintain a smooth, sharp, feel to the edge. The first edge tool you should have is a diamond stone. To start, purchase a "file holder" against which you can clip the diamond stone. One basic, affordable tool we like is the FK/SKS Variable Sharpener (Approximate cost $20 with a file from Reliable Racing.) Place the diamond stone in the holder. Then, gently move the stone along the side edge of the ski until burrs are removed, and the edge smooth. (The blue stone is an excellent stone and is a 325 grit). "You need a guide," emphasizes DeSantis. "Look for something with a plastic body and a dial which says 1, 2, or 3 degrees. Choose one's that easy. These can minimize dexterity inefficiency. Reliable Racing has a lot of tools like this. I like SKS (SKS/FK) Tools. Sun Valley also has tools more for the World Cup." The idea behind a holder is that these simple devices can grip and hold a diamond stone, file, and polishing stone at a set angle while providing a consistent, reliable, and rapid tune. "Trying to hold a stone by hand is highly inaccurate," says Sun Valley's Vermillion. "A hand can waiver." Don't try it without a simple, inexpensive tool. A simple tool such as the FK/SKS Variable Sharpener can maximize accuracy and takes minimal dexterity. 3. Inspect the bases regularly. "Worry about the edge more than scratches. You'll feel that! The edge is the most important thing on today's ski!" says DeSantis. "We use a true bar first. Sun Valley has a true bar with a white mark at 6 centimeters. Take that mark and place it over the edge. Raise the ski to the light and you'll see light coming through. If your bar is off the base, from closing the mark, you have one-degree of base bevel." If this seems too complex then start by maintaining the side edge, that's key. Then, periodically, have your mountain shop check the bases. Major scratches and gouges can be filled. 4. Wax regularly. Waxing protects the base and makes a ski glide and turn more easily. Most racers and pros hot wax their skis. But if you are hesitant to use an iron, initially start with a paste wax or liquid express wax. These come with an applicator and are relatively foolproof. Remember: Wax frequently. Protect the base and maintain easy gliding and turning qualities. Tools:
The Advanced Guide To Edge Maintenance 1. Mark edges with a magic marker for filing. Top skiers maintain a sharp edge. Whether a well-practiced tuner or a newcomer, one trick pros often use is to mark the edges with a black magic marker. This helps provide a visual guide when filing. The black should disappear fairly evenly over the length of the ski as you file and polish the edge. "I love this," says Mullen. "It's hard to see the new metal otherwise. As the marker disappears your job is done." 2. Use a file holder to maximize edge tuning. Start with a diamond stone in the holder. (Tools such as the FK/SKS Variable Sharpener (approximate cost $20 with a file) are helpful. Another alternative (which I have personally not tested but seen used by factory reps) is the Sun Valley Ski Tool Pro Edge Beveler. With an approximate cost of $38 for a file guide plus clamp, file not included, this is available through Race-Werks (1-800-741-3985). Remember: A. Use a file holder B. Remove burrs with a diamond stone. (Blue DMT) C. Use a file to tune dull skis. D. Polish with a diamond stone. (Red DMT) "We recommend that you start with an extra course diamond stone to remove burrs and case hardening. If you don't do it you cut down on the life of the file. And we recommend using a diamond stone wet," emphasizes Vermillion. 3. Be sure to polish. Remember how smooth and polished your edges were when new? Be sure to use a fine diamond stone to restore a polished feel. We suggest a red diamond stone. (Approximate Cost $10 for a DMT Mini Diamond Stone or $20 for a Sun Valley World Cup Diamond Files, both are excellent.) 4. Practice on an old ski or with a friend. Tuning can maximize performance. But like any skill, it can take practice to become a skilled tuner. That's the bad news. So, practice on an old ski first. Then ski on that ski and feel the difference. The Black Diamond Guide To Edge Maintenance: The Professional Tune 1. Start by preparing the base. Base filing and stone grinding help keep the base smooth and flush with the edges. Understand, if the base is either convex or concave, performance is effected: the ski will not turn as it was designed. If the bases are especially worn, it may be necessary to have the skis stone ground on a machine. But even after stone grinding, the base will need minor hand filing to finish the process. "Don't confuse a tune with a stone grind. If you have a complete tune they are resetting bevels," reflects Mullen. By hand, a Ski Visions Base Flattener from Reliable Racing can help prepare a base by hand. Again, though, after the base is flat, base edges will need to be beveled. Many tools are available for this from a $20 Base Beast from Reliable Racing to a highly precise range of professional base guides from Sun Valley Ski Tools. Of note, most machine grinds will reset the base bevels. "People are over filing the base bevel. Once it's set you maintain it with a diamond stone. The side edge is where you do most of the sharpening," emphasizes Mullen. 2. Remove excess side wall. Racers and manufacturer tuners typically use a skyver to remove excess side wall material. "It eliminates a lot of aggravation. It makes tunes last longer and tuning go quicker," notes Mullen. The FK Sidewall Skyver, approximately at $25 is one affordable tool available from Reliable Racing. 3. Prepare side edges. "For the average skier diamond stones are great," explains Dynastar's Wardlaw. "They can maintain sharpness. Whenever you feel burrs take 90 seconds to pull that diamond stone down the edge. You should plan to do that every three full days. When I was a kid tuning was a hassle, but now it's not. The tools are just so good." "If I am going to file I always diamond stone first," notes Volkl's Desantis. "And I always finish with a red diamond stone." Those looking for more refined tools might investigate the Bludan Super Sharp Files from Reliable Racing and Strawberry Files from Valley Ski Tools as these are especially high quality files. (Much harder than those available at a hardware store). I have been impressed by both. In addition, I use specially fabricated RRS Diamond Files, which have diamonds thermally bonded to both sides of cold rolled steel. This is a true specialty item from Reliable Racing worth investigating. Finally, the SKS/FK World Cup Roller Guide - while expensive at $89 - comes with a side wall skyver, has roller bearings in the base to enhance glide, and can hold all sizes and types of files and stones. 4. Apply a clean coat of wax. Waxing protects the base and helps ensure a smooth, easy turning, gliding ski. There are different ways to wax skis, from liquid waxes that can be wiped onto the base and buffed, to waxes which require ironing. The latter generally provides maximum protection. If hesitant, use a rub on wax or liquid wax with an applicator. If you iron-in your wax, you will need to pinch back your ski brakes with a heavy-duty rubber band or other restraining device so that you can glide the iron the full length of your ski. Then, first melt the wax by holding the iron above your ski and touching the wax against the iron, dripping it onto your ski. Then, carefully, iron the wax directly on the base, spreading it into a smooth layer. BE CAREFUL. Move the iron quickly and do not overheat the base itself. HINT, USE A LOW SETTING ON THE IRON. NEVER USE A GOOD IRON, SKI WAX IRONS CAN NOT BE USED FOR ANYTHING ELSE. Then, scrape and buff the bases. In the end, tuning need not take excessive time. With a side file holder, two diamond stones of different grits, a file, and wax, most skiers can maintain maximum performance with minimal effort. Be Aware - Wax and Ski With Care - Keep Skis Tuned. Technical Editor Tony Crespi has served as both a Development Team Coach as well as a Ski School Supervisor. A contributor to publications throughout snow country, his technical pointers are published throughout the season. Tony has continually written for SKIER NEWS since 1990. Recent columns can be archived from SKIER NEWS' Previous Issues. |
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