Val d’Isère
The Laisinant Express : a brand new way to get to the slopes. 33 years after the opening of the Iseran sector, the resort now boasts another brand new access to the slopes from an area which had never been equipped with a lift. A new detachable 6 seater chair lift will be inaugurated in December 2005. Its cost : 4.3 million €. This chairlift will take on some of the central Solaise Express traffic. Skiers staying in the Laisinant area can use this lift to get to the Fornet and Solaise sectors. After having skied the fabulous L or Mattis runs, no need to take the free shuttle to get back to the slopes. Environment is also taken into account. The commune of Val d’Isère has signed an agreement with the National Alpine Botanic Conservator in order to make an inventory of all protected species and to ensure their replanting if necessary. The agreement signed between the STVI and the Vanoise National Park makes provision for the counting of the royal eagles and black grouse nesting within proximity of the lift over the next 7 years.

Val d’Isère


***
Winter sports Movie In Fr without a name

http://sortiesalaneige.enretard.net/
http://ibiproductions.free.fr/

Powder alert Kirkwood Ca.
12-24" of NEW SNOW!
20-49" of snowfall this season to date.
Today's Forecast: Snow expected throughout the day

We’ll have probably have intermediate terrain only, Chair 5, but it’s the start of the season none the less. For the weekend, we hope to have Chairs 1, 5, 6 and 11, but it really just depends on the weather. We'll open whatever we can, as quickly as possible. Ticket prices will be discounted; prices will be determined when we know how much terrain we can offer. All services will be available on the Village Plaza; private lessons only until we open Chair 1. If you have a beginner in the group, please call or check the website first to ensure we have beginner terrain available before heading up. It snowed all day yesterday. From first light until well after dark, we had snow at all elevations. It was wet, the kind of snow that works its way down between the rocks and into the nooks and crannies where it will freeze and hold. This is the old tried and true recipe for great base. Nothing better than wet, sloppy snow, and lots of it, to paint the mountain with that most important base coat. This is the anchor for the 40+ feet of snow that will pile on top of it in the next few months.
That is the good news. The not so good news is that even though it snowed all day long (a pretty impressive feat given the low was around 33˚), the measuring stick at the bottom read a consistent 14 inches… all day long. Not a big deal, we wouldn’t even really make mention of it, if it wasn’t for the fact that we’re opening tomorrow and we need more than what we have to give our beloved guests what they want – great conditions, lots of terrain and plenty of options.
ALso a reminder,... Expedition: Kirkwood, California’s only resort based backcountry education program, teaches skills needed for backcountry skiing and riding. Seasoned Kirkwood ski patrollers and certified guides lead all programs, which include necessary backcountry specific equipment, including avalanche beacon, probe and shovel. Expedition: Kirkwood also offers several camps and clinics designed to improve your on-mountain skills including new women’s only clinics that teaches the skills to master a variety of terrain and snow conditions, how to find the best line and off-piste skiing etiquette.

Kirkwood
***



IOC International Olympic Comittee
Pleased with progress, IOC encourages Torino 2006 team
Led by Chairman and Olympic skiing legend Jean-Claude Killy, the IOC’s Coordination Commission has concluded its 10th and final full visit to Turin to review preparations for the Torino 2006 Olympic Winter Games. The Commission’s visit comprised three days of intensive meetings and site visits, and considered all aspects of the work required to ensure the successful staging of the Games.
IOC Coordination Commission Chairman Jean-Claude Killy said: “In terms of the seven years it takes to work on hosting the Olympic Games, the Opening Ceremony for Torino 2006 is now only a moment away. In and around Turin, great preparation work has been accomplished. The IOC is confident that one final effort from the Torino 2006 team, working as one, will lead to wonderfully successful Games. The world’s best winter sports athletes deserve nothing less.”
After meetings which brought together the representatives of the government at city, regional and national level, with five ministers present, Killy said: “We were particularly pleased to see all the public authorities that will help Torino 2006 deliver the Games around the same table. Preparing for the Olympic Games is a team effort. It is important this team stays focused and stays together, taking its cue from strong leadership on the part of the Organising Committee.”
Following the lighting of the Olympic torch on 27 November in ancient Olympia, and prior to its arrival in Rome on 7 December, Killy said: “Italy’s passion for sport is legendary. As the Olympic torch continues its relay towards Turin, I expect the whole country to be set alight as the passion for these Games builds and builds. With the winter sports season well under way, all eyes are turning to Turin and to Italy. Tens of thousands of people are looking forward to experiencing a festival spirit in Turin, while hundreds of millions more are looking forward to watching the Games.”
Drawing on his own experience and that of his IOC colleagues of organising successful Olympic Winter Games, Killy said: “Of course there will be challenges at Games time: there are always surprises either with the weather or a whole range of other issues. The success of the Games will depend on the ability of the organisers to overcome those challenges through successful Games operations. The IOC is confident that TOROC and its partners have the skills and experience to find solutions wherever there may be problems.”
Torino 2006 Organising Committee (TOROC) President Valentino Castellani added: “For more than six years now, we have had the opportunity to appreciate the advice and experience of the IOC Coordination Commission. We all share the same passion for the Olympic Games and this passion drives us all to want to do our best possible work to ensure the success of the Games. We are especially passionate about doing our best for the athletes. The athletes’ dreams of the Games motivate them through many years of training. I am confident they will be delighted by what they find in and around Turin.”
Although no further Coordination Commission meetings will take place before the Olympic Winter Games in Turin, smaller groups from the IOC will continue to visit, providing observations, advice and helping apply lessons from previous Games. IOC President Jacques Rogge will visit Turin, where he will meet with TOROC, tour venues and visit the ISU speed skating World Cup event, on 9 December.
IOC News Letter

Countdown

A Review of the Winter Olympic sites in order starting with
CHAMONIX 1924 Ist Olympic Winter Games
In 1921, the International Olympic Committee voted to stage “International Sports Week 1924” in Chamonix, France. This event was a complete success and was retroactively named the First Olympic Winter Games. The first event to be decided in Chamonix was the men’s 500m speed skating.



The first gold medal went to Charles Jewtraw of the United States. A. Clas Thunberg of Finland earned medals in all five speed skating events: three gold, one silver and one bronze. Norway’s Thorleif Haug dominated Nordic skiing, winning both cross-country races and the Nordic combined. The Canadian ice hockey team won all five of their matches, outscoring their opponents 110 to 3.

16 NOCs (Nations)
258 athletes (11 women, 247 men)
16 events

Credit: IOC Museum archives
Olympic Org
Photo: IOC/COUTTET Auguste

Chamonix Today
Chamonix

Killington
Today the word from Killington is go.Tom In the Marketing and communications sent a memo allowing the Killington news and updates to be reposted.
Coming up,... K05 Summit
12/03/2005 - 12/04/2005 The first ever K05 Summit at Killington will feature numerous events and activities throughout the weekend of December 3 - December 4. The Rails to Riches Jam will take place on Saturday December 3 and many of the top skiers and riders in the East are expected to participate in the open jam format. This year’s Rails to Riches Jam offers a $15, 000 total prize purse. There will be a bonfire at the base of the rails for the spectators to enjoy and a fireworks display set to go off, as the winners are being crowned Saturday night. The finals will begin at 5:00 p.m. with fireworks slated to begin at 6:15 p.m.
Party at the Peak will take place from 5:00 p.m.- 9:00 p.m. Saturday night at the Peak Restaurant. The K-1 Gondola will be transporting partygoers up and down the mountain at $10 per passenger. Included in the $10 ticket is a beverage (beer, wine or soda), a free screening of “The Community Project,” (set to start at 7:30 p.m.), cash bar and a DJ.
Other K05 Summit events will feature live music and DJ’s performing throughout the weekend, prize giveaways at the K-1 Gondola and a BBQ and bar on the K-1 deck. There will be special rates on group ski and ride lessons for the weekend and a large demo tent village for people to check out.
2nd Annual Vermont Holiday Festival 12/08/2005 - 12/11/2005 This event involves the entire Killington community and features decorated trees, Santa's workshop, white lights and more. For more information visit the Vermont Holiday Festival website.
Photo Credit: Killington Marketing

Killington

***


Timberline Lodge MT Hood
7" of fresh snow in the last 24 hours and skys are blue with scattered clouds - come on up and take some turns, spend your time on the slopes enjoying the new snow and not in lift lines! The snow is awesome, so what are you waiting for? Get your practice in for the upcoming rail jam this Saturday, registration starts at 8am, so get here early! Great news for all you night owls out there, we're opening for night skiing on Friday, Dec. 2nd! It starts at 4pm and it ends at 10pm.

December 3rd PREMATURE JIBULATION
A first time event at Timberline, presented by Rome SDS. This is a rail contest, jam format with prizes from Rome Snowboards. Registration is free with the purchase of a lift ticket. Registration from 9am-11am in the day lodge, contest starts at noon. Awards and prizes at 2pm.
December 10th LUNCH WITH SANTA
Snowflakes, warm mittens, hot cocoa, evergreens and the Man in Red. What better way to spend the day than playing in the snow and visiting with Santa! Enjoy Santa visiting with your children and posing for pictures, live holiday music performed by the Columbia River Chorus, a special visit from our resident St. Bernards Heidi and Bruno, holiday craft making, kid sized skis and boots to try on just for fun, a savory lunch, as well as last minute specials in our Gallery and Gift Shops.
Let the memory making begin. December 10th, 11am till 2:30pm. Limited space available so reserve your spot now! $19.95 per adult and $14.95 per child. Professional portraits with Santa available. Call 503-622-0756. December 24th and 25th CHRISTMAS AT TIMBERLINE
Experience a Magical Christmas dinner at Historic Timberline Lodge. Dinner is by reservation only 503-622-0756. Christmas Eve prices are $59.95 for adults, $17.95 for Juniors. Christmas Day $49.95 for adults and $16.95 for juniors, age 4 and under are complimentary. For menu and more information click
Bruno,always has a really good holiday calander of events. Very cozy for families. Timberline Lodge

***

Nakiska, Calgary Canada
Past 24 hrs 14 cm 6" Last 7 days 14cm 6"
Report last updated on 11/27/2005
Events
Dec 3 Opening Weekend (Tentative)
Dec 10 Open 7 Days a Week
Dec 10 Demo Days

Info Vertical Rise 2,412 feet
Lifts Available 2 Quads, 1 Triple, 1 Double, 1 T-Bar, 1 Magic Carpet
Lift Capacity 8,620 skiers/hour
Snowmaking Extensive: 85%

The 1988 Winter Olympic Games XV marked Canada's debut as the host of this prestigious international event. Heralded at the time as the most successful games ever, Canadians and, more specifically Albertans, were eager to show-off their winter paradise to the world.
Mount Allan's first claim to fame was in the late 1940's when coal was discovered at the eastern base of the mountain. Close to 40 years later Mount Allan was chosen as the site for the Olympic Alpine events and in 1986 construction began on what is now known as Nakiska.

Photo Credit:Nakiska

Nakiska
Other RCR "Resorts of the Canadian Rockies" Tentative opening dates

Nov 11th - Lake Louise Mountain Resort
Dec 10th - Fernie Alpine Resort
Dec 17th - Kimberley Alpine Resort

RCR

P.M. editon of the
Headwall Steep Journal
...It's about time Frosty let loose with some snow.
Kirkwood,Snowbird, and Tahoe Basin powder alert


Kirkwood
OPENING ON THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1ST!!! 11AM on Tuesday... We've received around two feet of snow at the top in the past 24 ... Kirkwood

A post card from Lake Placid

I am trying to navigate through Lake Placid Tourism and White Face to get the updates posted ,...patience.

Beaver Creek
American ski racing fans will have a ringside seat at Beaver Creek for a rare home-grown preview of the 2006 Torino Winter Olympic Games, November 29 through December 4. In addition to the pre-Olympic excitement, the 2005 Visa Birds of Prey World Cup Week will also mark the only U.S. World Cup appearance of reigning overall World Cup overall champion Bode Miller.
Photo credit:Beaver Creek and Bode himself

Constructed for the 1999 World Alpine Ski Championships, Beaver Creek’s Birds of Prey is widely recognized as one of the top five racecourses in the world. Given the four-race scenario, Birds of Prey will once again be in elite company in terms of number of events as only the Torino Olympics and the World Cup Finals in Are, Sweden will feature all four men’s disciplines in one location. If you have additional questions regarding the World Cup, please call the Vail Valley Foundation at 949-1999.
Tuesday, November 29
11.00am: Men’s Downhill Training - Birds of Prey

Wednesday, November 30
11.00am: Men’s Downhill Training (Qualifying) - Birds of Prey

Thursday, December 1
11.00am: Men’s World Cup Super-G Race - Birds of Prey
Formal awards immediately follow the conclusion of the race.

2.00pm-7.00pm : APrey Tent Festivities Free to public - Base of Centennial Lift
5.00pm-7.00pm: Public Presentation and Celebration - Beaver Creek Plaza
Note: Athlete's portion of Presentation - 5.30pm-6.15pm


Friday, December. 2
11.00am: Men’s World Cup Downhill Race - Birds of Prey
Formal awards immediately follow the conclusion of the race.
2.00pm-7.00pm: APrey Tent Festivities Free to public - Base of Centennial Lift
Includes Fireworks / Concert: Poppa Chubby

6.00pm: Black Diamond Ball - Vail Cascade Resort & Spa, Vail

Beaver Creek

***
Heavenly
Heavenly Mountain Resort Opening Day Location: Mountain Date: November 30, 2005
Base Elevation:
6,540 feet - California
7,200 feet - Nevada
Summit Elevation: 10,067 feet
Vertical Rise: 3,500 feet
Snowmaking: 70% of mountain trails
Average Annual Snowfall: 360 inches

Heavenly Mountain Resort, Lake Tahoe, Calif./Nev. – July 12, 2005 – If you haven’t been to South Lake Tahoe recently, you’re in for a surprise. Gone are the old motels and t-shirt shops, replaced by a vibrant village, up-scale lodging and exquisite restaurants. Heavenly Mountain Resort has turned this quirky ski town into a double-black-diamond destination. It’s a winter escape like no other. Rising 3,000 feet over famous crystal-blue waters of Lake Tahoe, few mountain resorts can compete with the scenic beauty and the exhilarating, on-mountain experience offered by Heavenly. It All Starts with the Mountain

Some things never change, like 300 days of sunshine, 40 feet of snow fall and 4,800 acres of terrain (California’s most). Heavenly still offers wide-open cruisers on the Sierra’s most meticulously-groomed corduroy. Mott and Killebrew canyons still challenge extreme skiers with 1,000-foot chutes that make instinct cry out in fear. Heavenly still boasts the best tree skiing on the West Coast, with unreal powder stashes hidden amongst the Jeffrey Pine and white fir forests. The ski experience is phenomenal. Freeskiing legend Glen Plake / Ski.E.O., and let him host an annual Gunbarrel 50, where contestants see how quickly they can navigate the world-famous bump run 50 times in one day. Heavenly Valley

Steamboat
Whew! Two days of the deepest powder some locals say since January 96 (it was up over my head in spots for sure), and there's still snow on the forecast all week! Today's a nice sunny interim between storms, the sky has broken to show its true blue once again, making the mountain, which we haven't seen in days, look spectacular. The trees are white-chocolate dipped, and trail snow is still EVERYWHERE. Our little Mt. Werner herd of elk was trampling the Daze as I rode up the gondola today, of course running into the trees as our car passed them before I could get a shot, but making me realize I really do live in paradise.
More,.... Steamboat

New Hampshire
Ski NH's Anytime, Anywhere Pass on sale NOW; for more information click here! If you'd like to customize a package of tickets for your favorite NH areas -- and ski or ride ANY DAY, including weekends and holidays -- take a look at the Ski NH Anywhere, Anytime Pass - packages of lift tickets start at $400 for smaller ski areas, and $800 for larger ski areas! Ski New Hampshire - NH Tourism
Photo credit; NH - Tourism -Wildcat Resort

***
North Shore Lake Tahoe Saturday and Sunday, Dec 10-11 is the "Learn More on the North Shore" once a year ski package special for beginners who would like to learn how to ski or snowboard. The cost is just $20 for this once a year promo. First time skier/boarder lesson specials include beginner's lift ticket (limited to bunny slopes), lesson and rentals at
Alpine Meadows
Northstar-at-Tahoe, Sugar Bowl,

To find information on a favorite resort or topic, type subject into field
"Search this Blog" at top left of page


Squaw Valley USA,
Homewood,
Mt. Rose
and Boreal ski resorts. This is a heads up cause sometimes, these resorts won't announce this event until one week prior.( or e-mail announcement just ahead )
Reply here if you would like to be included in a group caravan to your favorite resort.Check with your favorite North Shore resort

***
Squaw
Upcoming Events:
December 2005
9 - 10
Advanced Ski Clinic

10 - 17
Squaw Valley Winter Solstice

10 - 11
Learn to Ski & Snowboard Weekend

11
Annual Community Benefit Day

16 - 18
Advanced Ski Clinic

24
Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade ( alot of fun! )
SV College days

Tues , Wed Thurs
coupon
College days Coupon

Squaw Valley - got KT

***
MT Rose - Slide Mtn
The off-season has seen a flurry of activity at Tahoe's Highest Base resort with many improvements. Highlighting this summer's work will be the installation of this 330' ski school conveyor lift, dubbed the Flying Jenny . We are also beefing up the six packs. Adding additional Chairs on the Northwest Magnum 6 and the Blazing Zephyr 6 will increase the uphill capacity by 25% per hour.
Other highlighted projects include the completion of selected Chutes glading has also continued this summer providing the finishing touches on a few chutes, mainly to remove the dead trees and snags. Last but certainly not least are extensive improvments to the Slide Lodge parking lot.
What a year! Mt. Rose-Ski Tahoe completed a record shattering 2004/05 ski season with a 20% increase in skier visits over the former best year 2002/03. With beautiful October snowstorms blanketing the Sierra, Mt. Rose achieved another early season opening on Nov. 12th with excellent base to summit skiing & snowboarding. The opening of not only the East Bowl, but also the newly added Chutes terrain shortly followed this spectacular start. Whether the 157day record season was the result of an incredible snow season (424"), the addition of our 2nd high-speed, base to summit, six-passenger chair, or the opening of the highly anticipated Chutes is tough to say, but regardless, the 40th anniversary season at Mt. Rose-Ski Tahoe was spectacular!
Mt Rose - Slide mtn Home to "The Chutes"
Editors comment" The chutes, a long time magnet for those strolling out of bounds North Shore Tahoe, are well worth a visit. Nothing short of leg burners"
***
Homewood Mtn Resort

Old Quail Lift Chairs on Sale NOW!!! Want a piece of the old Homewood? What a better way than to grab one of our old lift chairs. They make great gifts and at $299 they're going fast! Contact Collier Cook at HMRCook@Skihomewood.com or call him at 530.525.2992 X 103.
Demo Skis on sale NOW starting as low as $250 ( introduce a friend to the sport ) an economical starting point!
Great prices on some of last season's hottest skis. They've only been used a few times and come with bindings. What a great deal!!! Contact Jake, our rental shop manager, for more information.
Wind sheltered with excellent groomed runs and powder skiing, Homewood is best known for it's spectacular lake views. Spread out over 1260 acres, skiers can take in fantastic lake panoramas from 99% of Homewood's 59 runs. There are four Chairlifts and four surface lifts. A rental and repair shop and ski and snowboard schools are also available. Facilities include two day lodges, a bar, and restaurants. I say Quail Bowl( nose ) on a Pow day ! with some friends


Photos: Viktoria / HMR-and Fernando

Olympic Shop Inventory sold here

STEAMBOAT HEAPS ON THREE FEET OF CHAMPAGNE POWDER® IN PAST 48-HOURS 28" at Mid-Mountain and 34" At The Summit in Past Two Days Nearly 6 Feet (70 inches) of Champagne Powder® Snow Has Fallen Since Nov. 4th STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, CO--November 28, 2005--The winter storm that started dumping snow Saturday, November 26th, in the Yampa Valley has brought the Steamboat Ski Area over two feet of Champagne Powder® snow at mid-mountain and nearly three feet at the summit in the past 48 hours. Snow continues to fall at this time in Ski Town, U.S.A. with an additional 5" at mid-mountain since 5am this morning.
"While ski season in Colorado is off to a great start, once again, Steamboat's proud to lead the pack in mid-mountain snow depths among the major destination resorts,"
As of 5 a.m., 14" had fallen overnight at mid-mountain and 18" at the summit in a 24-hour period (5a.m.-5a.m.). Since 5a.m. Saturday morning (5a.m.-5a.m.), an additional 14 inches has fallen at mid-mountain and 16 inches at the summit for a total of 28 inches and 34 inches respectively in the past 48 hours. Forecasts call for snow to taper off this afternoon with another system arriving on tomorrow and Wednesday. Since Nov. 4th, the resort has received nearly 6 feet (70 inches) of snow.

Snow alert for Alyeska, Beaver Creek ,Snowbird


Val Gardena

12-3.2005 - S. Cristina Opening of the Val Gardena Christmasmarket 12-05.2005 - Val Gardena S. Nicholas is visiting Ortisei, S. Cristina and Selva Gardena 12.-09.2005 - Ortisei Christmas Carols with the Men's Choir "Raetia"


Sugar Bowl
Sugar Bowl Mt. Judah Day Lodge Grand Opening Party! Put December 17th on your calendar for the big Mt. Judah Day Lodge Grand Opening Party! This is to celebrate the addition of 17,000 square feet to the lodge and a total remodel. All of our dear readers are invited to join the festivities! www.sugarbowl.com


***

Courchevel This winter the Bubble will open on 01 Dec for evenings for the first week, then 'proper' the weekend after. Happy hour is 5-6 daily with '2for1' spirits and cheap jugs. There's also ski raffles weekly, lunch snacks daily, live music 3 times a week, internet access, Sky TV. ** La Plagne - France
Construction workers in La Plagne are currently toiling seven days a week in extreme weather conditions in order to complete the reconstruction work of the Bellecote cable car in time for its proposed re-opening in December.
Earlier this summer, fire completely destroyed the top station of the cable car despite the best efforts of the emergency services. Teams were brought in by land and by helicopter but the fire caused an estimated €3.5 - €4 million worth of damage. The arrival station was completely destroyed, the 6km long cable melted and snapped under the heat of the fire, one pylon was totally destroyed and two further pylons required replacement heads.

***
STEAMBOAT SNOW REPORT
Wake up, you'll want to go sking today." That's what I said to my lady as I looked out the window and dialed the snow report. I listened intently for a magical number....give me something over 10....anything over 10 inches. The report was 14 inches at mid-mountain and 16 inches of new snow at the summit in 24 hours! Are you kidding me? Isn't Christmas still a month away?!
Today could be one of those all-time days, but I don't want to start calling those yet, it's only the first week of the season. As we stepped of the Gondola and walked out into the fresh, I couldn't help but notice all the hoots and hollas...people were freaking out and with good reason - it is awesome up there! STEAMBOAT SNOW REPORT (5 am): 11/28/05

New Snow last 24 hrs at the summit: 18"
New Snow last 72 hrs at mid-mountain: 28"
Settled Snow Depth Base at the summit: 57"
Cumulative: 70"


***
Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort
Special Offer #1:
$50 TWO DAY PASS
Valid any two days between
Monday 11/28/05 and Friday 12/2/05.
This special offer can only be purchased on-line through the Meadows E-Ticket system.
Purchase your 2 Day Pass on-line, print out your eTICKET and bring it to Meadows to exchange for a 2 Day multi-day pass. This is a non-transferable lift ticket good for any two days (Open / Close tickets) between Monday and Friday (11/28 - 12/2). The 2 Day Pass is attached to a jacket or pants with a wicket so you must wear the jacket or pants both days.
Mt Hood Meadows

***
Squaw
Tentative opening Dec 3 ,
WHY SQUAW
KT rated of the best Lifts in North Anerica !( West face C-75, Coleman's rail road ...)
SKIING MAGAZINE (part 2) - In the September 2004 Issue, long-time writer, ski afficionado and industry guru Steve Casimiro offers up his reasons for why KT-22 is the BEST CHAIRLIFT in North America! We obviously agree...check out the story. SKI Magazine – In the 2004 Reader Survey Squaw was Voted #17 Overall, up four spots from last season.
MSN U.S. Ski Guide - From the West Coast to the Northeast, MSN's editors cast their votes for the Top 10 in the Nation - Squaw Valley earned the #8 spot! Skiing Magazine – Voted #4 Overall Resort in North America
Freeskier Magazine - Voted #4 Overall Resort
Transworld Snowboarding - Voted #10 for Halfpipes in their readers poll
SKI Magazine – Voted #24 Overall in their annual reader survey
For all that Squaw has "got it going on "
Squaw Valley got Kt?

***
Olympic Org
The Olympic Torch Relay will start on 27 November 2005 in Olympia, Greece, where the ancient Olympic Games were celebrated from 776 B.C. by the Greeks. The Priestess, who lights the flame, will pass it to the first torchbearer, and the flame will begin to make its way to Italy. On 8 December 2005, the relay will begin in the Piazza del Quirinale in Rome, where the President of the Republic of Italy, Carlo Azeglio Ciampi, will light the torch for the first torchbearer on Italian soil, Stefano Baldini – gold medallist in the marathon at the Athens Olympic Games in 2004. The Olympic flame will then arrive at the Opening Ceremony of the Turin Games on 10 February 2006.
Route And Torchbearers The Olympic Torch Relay will spend 64 days touring the length and breadth of Italy. It will cover a total distance of 11,300 km, visiting 140 cities, 107 provinces and all of Italy’s regions. There are expected to be many well-known personalities from the worlds of sport, business and culture participating in the Olympic Torch Relay among the 10,001 torchbearers that will carry the flame to Turin. Among the personalities are expected to be Giorgio Armani, Jarno Trulli, Juri Chechi and all of Italy’s Olympic gold medallists from the last two editions of the Games.
Olympic Comittee



Industry news
SIA
SIA Prevents Trade Restrictions
The United States and China announced an agreement to limit imports of certain apparel products from China over the next three years. At SIA's request, the agreement explicitly excludes ski and snowboard pants from any import restrictions. It also places no limits on imports of ski jackets from China.
On November 1, 2005, the U.S. government unilaterally excluded ski/snowboard pants from the quota that has blocked Chinese imports of those categories since June. Ski/snowboard pants were the only products that were granted a 'carve-out' from the original 2005 quota since there is literally no domestic production of these particular products in the U.S. The agreement maintains this status for the years 2006 through 2008.
SIA

Val Gardena, Italy From 03.12 in S. Cristina/Iman CentreAnother interesting and very nice event is the typical Christmas Market which will take place for the 3rd time in Val Gardena.
from 03.12. until 23.12.20053+1: A fun ski day free if you stay 4 days or more!In Val Gardena on Dec. 03, 2005, the starting signal for the winter season can be heard. We give you a skiing day free!
Men's Super-G and a Downhill16.12. - 17.12.2005 Also this year Val Gardena prepares 2 runnings of the Ski Worldcup 2005/06. The Men's Super-G and a Downhill.
World Cup - Special Offer
15.12. - 18.12.2005
Our World Cup package offers our guests a special winter delight: 3 nights, ski pass and admittance to the World Cup races for men in Val Gardena at a package price.
Skiers & Snowboarder can enjoy the following new lifts and improvements for 2005/06: Mont Sëura - Detachable chairlift for 4 persons
Val - New chairlift for 2 persons (1200 p/h) serve as connection between Vallunga and Dantercëppies
Easier connection slope from the "Comici" hut on Piz Sella to the "Tramans" - chairlift that continues until Monte Pana. This new slope is an easier alternative to the present connection-slope from Piz Sella over Ciampinoi

Val Gardena

***
USSA
OLN PREMIERES 'TEN WEEKS TO TORINO' PROGRAMMING THIS SUNDAY Weekly Broadcast Kicks Off with Men's Alpine World Cup from Lake Louise PARK CITY, Utah (Nov. 25) – OLN, the leader in action sports and adventure programming, hits the slopes this winter with the hottest Olympic hopefuls on the U.S. Ski Team and U.S. Snowboarding beginning this Sunday, Nov. 27, with "Ten Weeks to Torino," a weekly show dedicated to the races and the athletes to watch in this pre-Olympic season. Airing Sundays at 5 p.m. ET, "Ten Weeks to Torino" will feature same-day coverage of many of skiing and snowboarding’s biggest events starting with the men's alpine World Cup races from Lake Louise, Alberta.
Nov. 27
Lake Louise, ALB - men's alpine World Cup

Dec. 4
Beaver Creek, CO - VISA Birds of Prey, men's alpine World Cup;
Lake Louise, ALB - women's alpine World Cup
Dec. 11
Aspen, CO - Sirius Satellite Radio Aspen Winternational, women's alpine World Cup; Val D'Isere, FRA - men's alpine World Cup

Jan. 1
Steamboat, CO - U.S. Olympic Team Trials (freestyle moguls/aerials); Bormio, ITA - men's alpine World Cup
Jan. 8
Adelboden, SUI - men's alpine World Cup
Jan. 15
Mt. Bachelor, OR - Chevrolet U.S. Snowboard Grand Prix;
Deer Valley, UT - Chevrolet Freestyle International (moguls/aerials);
Wengen, SUI - men's alpine World Cup
Jan. 22
Mountain Creek, NJ - Chevrolet U.S. Snowboard Grand Prix; Kitzbuehel, AUT - men's alpine World Cup
Jan. 29
Lake Placid, NY - Nature Valley Freestyle Cup (moguls/aerials);
Schladming, AUT - men's alpine World Cup;
Garmisch, GER - men's alpine World Cup
Feb. 5
Chamonix, FRA - men's alpine World Cup;
Mountain Creek, NJ - Chevrolet U.S. Snowboard Grand Prix;
XX Olympic Winter Games Preview
** OLYMPIC BREAK **
March 19**
Lake Placid, NY - State Farm Snowboard Cup;
Are, SWE - alpine World Cup Finals
April 1 (Sat.)
Sugarloaf, ME - U.S. Alpine Championships;
Killington, VT - Sprint U.S. Freestyle Championships
USSA

***
Killington, Vermont
Killington will open an additional 20 trails , bringing our total trail count to 50 trails and 19.83 miles of terrain, served by 14 lifts!
The first round of winter storms has left 13.5 inches of snow atop Killington Peak and 10.25 inches at the base in the past 48 hours. There is a chance of snow flurries Thursday night and Friday.
www. killington.com

***
TORINO 2006: TOROC Presents The Olympic Torch Relay The Organising Committee for the XX Olympic Winter Games – Torino 2006 (TOROC) today presented its plans for the Torino 2006 Olympic Torch Relay. The relay will see 10,001 torchbearers transport the Olympic flame from... [ Full Story ] Olympic Organization Comittee

***
Whiteface Mountain Lake Placid
Nature Valley Freestyle Cup - Lake Placid
Whiteface Mountain and the MacKenzie-Intervale Ski Jumping Complex. Year after year the star-studded athlete line-up descends upon Lake Placid, the two-time Olympic village and only World Cup freestyle host venue in the eastern United States . It can't get any bigger – or better – than this: huge air, off-axis rotations, high speed bumps and triple kickers. Now let's add tension and pressure: this will be the final chance to qualify for the 2006 Torino Winter Games. Get the gears grinding, kick it into turbo and get set for high-flying action as the best of the best strive for the gold January 20-22. The program changes this year with moguls at Whiteface on Friday and Sunday, while the aerials event soars on Saturday night.
Whiteface Lake Placid New York

Kick off your holiday season celebrations with a wonderful concert by the 40 plus voices strong Truckee Community Chorus! In addition to traditional Christmas carols, this family event will include a variety of lively seasonal selections, sing along and selections from Handel's "Messiah". Before and after the concert, join the chorus and audience for a fun no-host bar and snacks social hour.
The concert takes place at 4:00 pm on Sunday, December 4 at Resort at
Squaw Creek in Squaw Valley. Tickets at the door $10 (children free).
For more information, visit www.squawvalleyinstitute.org
***

Dolomiti Superski region Italy
Ski Opening on Saturday, 26th of November!
Tomorrow, the 26th of November, the starting gun will be fired for the season in the Dolomiti Superski region!
A few uphill facilities will be in operation in the following valleys: Cortina d'Ampezzo, Kronplatz, Alta Pusteria, Fiemme/Obereggen, Passo Rolle and Civetta. Here you will find the list of the open lift facilities ...
The Dolomiti Classics are amongst the major events of the Alpine Ski World Cup. Ski resorts, organisers, athletes and guests are looking forward to these competitions in the Dolomites. On 16th /17th December 2005 the Men’s SuperG and Downhill will take place in Val Gardena. On 18th December the Ski World Cup with the traditional Giant Slalom on the Gran Risa will take place in Alta Badia. From 12th to 15th January it is the turn of the Nordic Skiing Competitions in Val di Fiemme and from 27th to 29th January 2006 Cortina d´Ampezzo will host during a long weekend three races of the Women’s World Cup, the Downhill, the SuperG and the Giant Slalom

Dolomiti Superski Italy
***

Red Lodge Mountain
Open Lifts: 3: Miami Beach, Willow Creek and the Mighty Mite
Trails: 5% open with 3 main routes down the mountain: Miami Beach, Turnpike and Bobcat.
Surfaces: 6" - 14" base with machine groomed surfaces.

Red Lodge Mountain
***
Stowe Mountain Resort flipped the switch on winter operations for the 2005-2006 ski season. The resort opened with top-to-bottom lifts and trails amidst 20+ inches of new snowfall this past week. Snowmaking will also continue around the clock to open more trails for the weekend.

On Saturday 11/26, Stowe will hold its’ 3rd annual Turkey Rail Jam. The event is open to all skiers & riders with a lift ticket or pass, and has no entry fee. It takes place from 12-2pm in Jib Nation on North Slope. Please come out to Vermont's highest peak and join us for some early winter fun.

Stowe

***
Killington, Vermont Powder Alert
Iam in the process of getting authorization from Killington for broadcasting news and updates.
***
Alyeska, Alaska Snow Alert
***
Hintertux, Austria Snow Alert

Peace & Best Wishes for your Thanksgiving Holiday
I am grateful to each of the marketing & communications departments for their cooperation helping me take the concept of a (International Resort and Snow Sports cooperative newswire) into the first season.
Outreach started the week after the last California lift closed.
-First were the glacial resorts and the southern hemisphere.
-Next came the gathering of the prominent regional Big Mountain resorts.
-Then finally addressing the multi-resort corporate offices and the staff of Mr. "C" below the tram tower at Tahoe.

I am grateful this Thanksgiving that despite different countries, different languages, different business policies, procedures & protocols that whatever luck or karma I still had in my lifetime account, and that the fung shui alignment of my "Project Hired" computer was enough to pull together more than a half dozen previous Olympic venues, the majority of the glacier resorts, major players in New Zealand and just enough translation assistance that South American resorts would also get their fair share of exposure.

Onward ...., work needs to be done. I want to increase the count of eastern U.S. resorts, expand the equipment section and restructure the shopping to be much more functional than a parking area for affiliates and sponsors, ...work needs to be done.With the exception of the lone resort in South Africa, I believe I have a good core of resorts ,Indoor slopes and Dry slopes for the maiden voyage season.

I am surrounded by a long list influences, contributors, associates and a few friends. Bob and Greg, I will always be grateful to for the years in their shop. Lamar P. for my first out-of-state trip and decades of vetran Instructor tips. Paul C., Scott F. & Jeff the coaches for tolerateing a "beat up" in the gates on Motts. Smitty for his insight on the psychology of surgical rehab.

Ever onward. So you think I missed something? I'm listening and want your feedback !Thanks to Harry James of HappyHarry.net for the technical fine tuning in progress.

Those in the northeast, great lakes and north west have reason to be grateful, the lifts are running! Any day the lifts are running, the rest is downhill !

Enjoy your Holiday, enjoy your friends and be grateful you're not the Turkey.

-Michael

Killington
Nine inches of new snow in the past 24 hours at Killington Peak and seven at the base. Jim Roemer "Dr. Weather" is predicting another storm for Wednesday night and Thursday with the potential of an additional 10-15 inches. That's 1-2 feet of new snow this week if predictions hold true.
We expanded to 20 trails and four lifts for Wednesday with the addition of Snowshed and another 10+ trails and nine lifts will be open this weekend. The world's largest snowmaking system is also running full-throttle to complement Mother Natures natural offering
Killington

***
Red Lodge
Well, here we are, only two days until we open. This is the scoop: Miami Beach Chair and those associated runs will be open. The snowmakers are hoping for cold temps in the next two nights and working with the groomers who are moving snow, they will have Turnpike and Bobcat open as well. We will know for sure on Friday. Sorry, I cannot be more exact, but this recent stretch of warm temperatures has really taken its toll on the snow and snowmaking operations. I hope you can make it up this weekend, even with the limited terrain. Red Lodge Mountain



***
Stubaier-gletscher Austria
Try the first real winter sports SUPER ALL INCLUSIVE PACKAGE and guarantee yourself a place in the sun! Happy Ski & all: Sunday to Thursday 23.10 until 22.12.2005 and 22.04. until 14.05.2006 * includes: 4 days half-board accommodation, 4 course meal and après ski snack in Hotel Happy Stubai Transfer to hotel (from Innsbruck station or airport) 3 1/2 day ski pass for the Stubai Glacier 3 1/2 day ski and snowboard rental - top models plus depot 3 x lunch at the Goldene Gams restaurant (reserved seat) 3 x deckchair hire at Gamsgarten 1/2 day ski guiding on the Stubai Glacier
Early booking bonus: reserved parking by the lift station, all for the sensational price of € 439.00 per person *Can only be booked if you arrive on Sunday and leave on Thursday. Here you find all the information to make you feel great at Hotel Happy Stubai: www.happy-stubai.at
.....more information: www.stubaier-gletscher.com

***
To find information on a resort or topic, type subject into field "Search this Blog" at top left of page

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Situated north of LiJiang Old Town. The highest point in the mountain reaches a height of 5596 meters. This prominent wonder is made up of thirteen peaks and the highest one is named as "Fan Peak". This "Fan peak" is still a virigin peak and has yet to be conquered by mountaineering enthusiasts. Above the height of 4500 meters, you can find 19 marine glaciers extending to a width of 30 meters and approximately 100 meters in length. There are cable cars available in this resort that will bring you to a height of 4506 meters above sea level. You can also enjoy skiing on the northeast range of the Fan Peak. This is the one and only skiing place located in the South of China

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
***



Habuka47
Hakuba 47 Winter Sports Park is located in Hakuba Valley cascading down the apron of the Northern Japan Alps, the hottest skiing mecca of Japan which has more than 10 ski resorts nearby and over 200 runs. So that the alpine scenery from our resort and Hakuba Village is truly spectacular with huge rugged peaks towering to the sky, especially, Goryu Mountain and the Big three Hakuba Mountains, Hakuba Yarigatake, Hakuba Syakushidake, Shiroumadake. Shiroumadake, which means white horse, is the resort's signature peak rising to a lofty 2,932m (9,770 feet).
Hakuba 47 is interlinked with two other mountains, Hakuba Goryu and Iimori, and offer the ski able area of XXX hectars with 23 named runs together to delight skiers and snowboarders. It has one of the resorts' most notable intermediate cruising run, the longest season in Hakuba Village, some comfortable north-facing beginner slopes from which the wide-open landscape and other ski resorts in Hakuba Village can be seen, a huge moguls course, and a well-maintained half-pipe and snow park which has a variety of rails, jumps and waves. Hakuba Goryu and Iimori on the South side of the mountain can also be reached from Hakuba47, offering beginners, intermediates and experts an even wider selection of runs to choose from.
In 1998 the Winter Olympic Games returned to Japan after 26 years. Snowboarding and curling debuted as official disciplines and women’s ice hockey was introduced to the Olympic programme. For the first time, the men's ice hockey tournament was opened to all professionals. The inspired team from the Czech Republic scored a surprise victory. Björn Dählie won three gold medals in Nordic skiing to become the first winter athlete to earn eight career olympic gold medals and twelve total medals. Tara Lipinski won the women’s figure skating title to become, at 15, the youngest champion in an individual event in the history of the Winter Olympics. The spirit of the Games was exemplified by Alpine skier Hermann Maier. Maier survived a spectacular fall in the downhill, recovered and earned gold medals in both the super-G and the giant slalom. http://www.olympic.org

Courchevel France
The Courchevel ski area, with 63 ski-lifts, and 117 downhill skiing runs with an accumulated length of 150 km, guarantees you quality snow cover (thanks to its 562 snow cannons) and the skiing of your dreams, from the beginning to the end of the season. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced skier, a back-country enthusiast, a family skier, or a rider, Courchevel offers the skiing experience you're looking for.
Opening Dec 3
Courchevel

Solden
Finally winter has arrived in Sölden! Big snowflakes are failing silently, covering the entire village and the valley all in white. Grab your skis and take full advantage of our great pre-Christmas packages and deals. Why not combining a winter and skiing holiday with ultimate wellness offers?

Perfectly groomed slopes and endless sunshine hours at our glaciers guarantee memorable holidays for skiing fans and nature lovers in early winter. The freshly fallen snow makes the Rettenbach and Tiefenbach glacier ski areas a truly unique paradise for winter sports fans in November. 10 ski lifts and 36 km of well-groomed slopes await you.

SAAB SALOMON CROSSMAX

December 08. & 09. 2005 Also in 2005, Sölden hosts the internationally renowned Skier Cross competition! The world-best ski-crossers will fight for the qualification at the X-Games held in North America. Skier Cross races are a perfect combination of adrenaline, power, speed, technique and tactics.
10 lifts OPEN
- 4SK Rettenbachjoch 4-Sesselbahn Gletscherskigebiet OPEN
Soelden

***

Whistler
Whistler Blackcomb plans to open more than 3,500 acres of terrain on both mountains for US Thanksgiving. A quick review of ski resorts worldwide indicates that this would be the most terrain open anywhere, and would be the most Whistler Blackcomb has ever been able to open for the US Thanksgiving weekend in its 40-year history.
Bob Dufour, Whistler Blackcomb's vice president of operations and a 33 year employee, has been assessing the situation during the last few weeks. "Whistler Mountain is in great shape and we plan to offer the highest vertical and most terrain our guests have ever experienced this American Thanksgiving weekend," he says. "In my 33 years of working for the mountains, these are among the best early season conditions I've seen."
Whistler Mountain opens November 24, 2005. Blackcomb Mountain is now open daily. Operational Update for Saturday and Sunday, November 19-20, 2005. Next update available Monday, November 21.
Blackcomb Mountain is open with early season conditions. There may be unmarked rocks and obstacles on runs that are open. Please obey all on-mountain signage and ski/ride with care.
Hours of Operation: 8:30am - 3pm. Last upload: 2:45pm
Whistler Blackcomb

***

Steamboat
STEAMBOAT OPENS THE 2005/2006 SEASON THIS WEDNESDAY - $15 LIFT TICKETS
The ski and snowboard season opens in Ski Town U.S.A.® with specially priced $15 Lift Tickets benefiting the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club’s Scholarship Fund. "The winter season is off to a great start this year and you won’t find a better price for a day of skiing this Wednesday in Colorado than Steamboat," said Chris Diamond, president of the Steamboat Ski and Resort Corporation. "Scholarship Day is the perfect opportunity to enjoy Steamboat-Ski Town, U.S.A.® with family and friends on great snow while supporting a very worthwhile organization, the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club." Remember, Season Passes and Super Value Passes are not valid for Scholarship Day but will be valid starting Thursday, November 24, 2005.
The resort is currently reporting a 20-inch base at mid-mountain with packed powder and man-made conditions. As of Thursday, Nov. 17th, the resort has received 32 inches of snow during the past week at mid-mountain and 42 inches of snow since Nov. 4th.
STEAMBOAT TO HOST U.S. OLYMPIC TEAM TRIALS IN FREESTYLE SKIING Three Reigning World Champions, Two Defending World Cup Champions & Three Reigning Olympic Medalists Scheduled To Compete In Steamboat This Winter.The U.S. Ski & Snowboard Association, the century-old organization which serves as the national governing body of Olympic skiing and snowboarding, and Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation announced that the U.S. Olympic Team Trials for aerials and moguls skiing will take place Dec. 30-31, 2005.The U.S. Olympic Team Trials is essentially a wild-card opportunity for athletes to make the Olympic Team, as two winners (male and female) from each freestyle discipline (aerials and moguls) will be named to the 2006 U.S. Olympic Freestyle Team. The remaining athletes will qualify for the Olympic Team through a season-long series of existing World Cup competitions. The entire 2006 Olympic Freestyle Team will be named Jan. 25, 2006.
Steamboat

***
Alpine Meadows
Opening Day at Alpine Meadows is just around the corner. Our projected opening date is currently scheduled for December 2nd, conditions permitting.
www.skialpine.com.

Silver Star
Silver Star Mountain Resort fired up the lifts , Big White is now Open
At Silver Star, you can access over 2,000 vertical feet of skiing and riding on the Vance Creek side from the Comet Express, Summit double, and Silver Queen chairlifts. At Big White, the Ridge Rocket Express and Plaza Quad are open.
Calendar of Events

Canadian Ski Instructors' Alliance Level 1 courses Nov 26 - Dec 4
Canadian Association
Other highlights
Pick-Up Your Season Passes at Silver Star and Big White
Silver Star Nordic Festival 2005
Festive Christmas Parties at Big White & Silver Star
Gift Certificates Make Ideal Stocking Stuffers
Killer ‘Package Deals’ on New Gear and Group Lessons!
Silver Star Snowsport School Programs
Big White’s After School Program – Bonus Weekend
News Shorts – Gossip and Happenings at Big White and Silver Star
Nov 26 - Dec 4 Canadian Ski Instructors' Alliance Level 1 courses A four day course. November 26 & 27 and December 3 & 4 Nov 29 - Dec 1 Canada's West Marketplace
Victoria Conference Centre Victoria, BC
Dec 1 - Dec 4 Ski Dazzle Los Angeles LA Convention Centre
Los Angeles, CA Dec 9 - Dec 11 Canadian Association of Snowboard Instructors Level 1 courses
Dec 15 Tri Cities Warren Miller Tri Cities, Washington Dec 15 - Dec 18 Canadian Ski Instructors' Alliance Level 1 courses
Dec 16 Warren Miller Ski Show Capitol Theatre Yakima, WA
Dec 17 Warren Miller Ski Show Spokane Opera House Spokane, WA
Dec 24 Christmas Eve Festivities
Dec 25 Christmas Day

Dec 28 - Dec 29 Cruz the Blues Sponsored by Tim Horton's A fun event for everyone, all you have to do is ski/snowboard all the “blue” runs at Big White, get your Cruz the Blues passport stamped, and you’ll be eligible to win great prizes. All participants get a passport and an “I Cruzed the Blues at Big White” t-shirt. Register on mountain at the Activities Desk or email activities@bigwhite.com. Dec 31 New Year's Festivities


Big White   Silver Star



Ski Dazzle, Los Angeles December 1st through 4th, 2005Once again, the world of skiing and snowboarding is coming to the Los Angeles Convention Center just to meet YOU! …And it's all going to fit under one roof! Over 4 football fields of bargains and information you can't get anywhere else! Ski Dazzle -
The Los Angeles Ski Show & Snowboard ® features over 360 exhibit booths showcasing the core companies of skiing and snowboarding who all want to meet you!
Over 85 local, national and international winter resorts; ski & snowboard equipment factory reps; local retailers offering "Show Specials"; clubs and associations; seminars and clinics; and a $4,000,000.00 Ski & Snowboard Sale with holiday shopping bargains!

Ski Dazzle

Snow Report Updated
Faire Watch Updated
Mt Hood Meadows
THANKSGIVING SPECIAL
...Just e-spoke with Meadowws Portland office, some great Chinese food downtown in the historic section, anyway Mt Hood Meadows Staff has authorized their news to be posted here. For all of you into some sustained steep terrian I really suggest the Atomic Lip from the 10:00 postition to 1:00 looking at the summit, just below the Cat skiiing access.Last season I found some nice teardrop moguls leading into the bowl runout. Pick some lines and enjoy the laps $26 LIFT TICKET!

Valid Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday November 21, 22, 23, OR 24, 2005
We are so thankful to be open with four high speed quads operating this week that we're giving you a special price on a lift ticket.
Purchase your ticket on-line for just $26. This is an on-line special offer which must be purchased in advance through our web site.
This is an open/close lift ticket that can be used Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or even Thursday - Thanksgiving Day! You can purchase the ticket for yourself or for others on our eTICKET page.
We also want to thank you, our guest, and we truly hope you can join us for some great riding this week. But where ever your holiday travels may take you, the staff at Mt. Hood Meadows wishes you a safe and happy holiday!

Mt Hood Meadows
***


Crystal
With all these spring-like conditions for the slopes it feels as though it should be Easter and not Thanksgiving right around the corner. The conditions are great for November. Coverage is good and the weather has been gorgeous. Which is why we wanted to invite everyone up to the mountain to help us celebrate Thanksgiving.
Come and work up an appetite on the slopes then join us in the Bullwheel for a delicious Thanksgiving feast. The dinner includes slow roasted turkey breast served with homemade stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie for dessert. The dinner is $17.00 and starts at 5:30pm. Please contact the hostess stand for reservation (360) 663-3094.
The Express Bus starts next Saturday, November 26. It will run on Saturdays and Sundays and includes a full day pass for just $67. The bus leaves from both Seattle and Tacoma locations. For more information click here or to make reservations contact 1.800.665.2122.
We still cannot believe how lucky we have been with all the early snowfall for the season. Mother Nature sure has a way with Washington weather! So keep the dancing and the praying for snow parties up and hopefully we will have an unforgettable season ahead of us.
Ski Crystal

Tremblant: A new ice and snow lounge at Tremblant this winter: – Opening at Mont Tremblant Resort this winter is a whole new conceptually unique lounge: The N'Ice Club. This Ice Hotel Québec-Canada realization, will allow visitors of the resort to experience a truly original way to live the après-skit “On The Rocks”! It will be entirely made of snow and ice. This arched structure of 4200 sq. ft. will be able to accommodate 250 people at a time. In total, 1600 tons of snow and 100 tons of ice will be needed for its production. The infrastructure will be the perfect place to welcome corporate groups, business meetings, and of course, weddings

Canadian Freestyle Ski Association
2010 Legacies Now Announces Grants for BC Freestyle
2010 Legacies Now has announced significant financial support for the FIS Freestyle World Cup Finals at Apex Mountain and a Freestyle Canadian Series event at Cypress Mountain in 2006.
These grants are part of the BC Hosting Now initiative and they will have a real impact in making it possible to have both current and future Canadian Freestyle champions compete at home – and will bring the best freestyle skiers in the world to BC.
Peter Judge, CEO of the Canadian Freestyle Ski Association responded to the announcement as follows:
“On behalf of the Canadian Freestyle Ski Association, the BC Freestyle Ski Association, Apex Mountain and Cypress Mountain I wish to express our sincere gratitude for the event support being provided by the BC Hosting Now Grants to two of our major events. This support has assisted in bringing one of the pinnacle skiing events of the season, the FIS World Cup Finals in Freestyle Skiing, to the province of British Columbia. This will not only be an appropriate “home coming” for Canadian athletes after the Torino Games but will mark an important beginning of the new quadrennial as the world turns its attention to Canada and British Columbia. In a true demonstration of how sport and business can work together to create benefits for both, this event will create a significant world wide profile for the interior of BC and assist in forging a legacy training partnership between Apex Mountain and Freestyle Skiing ultimately creating a significant Canadian advantage for 2010....for both sport AND tourism. Just as importantly both events will provide important proving grounds to better prepare BC in hosting the world in just over four years by providing important experience for volunteers and officials.” Ski Canada
www.canadianskicouncil.org

Chamonix
Lifts Open
AIGUILLE DU MIDI téléphérique Chamonix - Plan de l’Aiguille
AIGUILLE DU MIDI téléphérique Plan de l’Aiguille - Aiguille du Midi
MONTENVERS - MER DE GLACE

x
A footpath for the slalom A footpath has been installed along the length of the slalom run to offer optimal vision of the piste. Spectators can join the footpath at the foot of either side of the piste. Special offer: Special World Cup Kandahar Sojourn During the Kandahar week, the tourist offices of Chamonix and Les Houches are offering a special World Cup sojourn in the valley. An all-in, made-to-measure holiday (depending on the type of accommodation selected and the number of people) which includes: - Accommodation in a 2 or 3 star hotel
- A 3 day Les Houches lift pass
- A guided visit of the piste
- Access to the VIP area in the finish area during the two days of the competition
- Access to the piste area during the training sessions


Les Houches: from Wednesday 1st to Saturday 4th February (3 nights) If this offer interests you, please contact the following e-mail address to make your reservation: houcheshebergement@chamonixworldcup.com

For further info :
Office de tourisme Chamonix Mont-BlancT. +33 (0)50 53 23 33
F. +33 (0)4 50 53 87 42

reservation@chamonix.com
Chamonix

chamonixworldcup
***
Steamboat
STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, CO-Winter 2005/2006-When winter athletes gather in Italy in 2006, it will be called the Winter Games. When Olympians gather in Steamboat, it’s simply called Friday. This statement has grown out of a 73-year Olympic tradition unmatched in the world. Imagine a town where 1 out of every 180 individuals is an Olympian! In Steamboat, you’re just as likely to share the gondola with an Olympian, as you are to be in the checkout line with one or enjoying one of the free concerts next to an Olympian. “Steamboat’s true sense of community, individuals who have genuine friendly attitudes combined with world-class terrain and abundant snow, make this simply a great place to live,” said Andy Wirth, vice president-sales & marketing for Steamboat. “Imagine you are one of Steamboat’s World, Olympic or National Champions…you’ve skied all over the world and you could live anywhere you wanted. Would you pick your second favorite place? Neither did any of Steamboat’s Olympians.” Steamboat is known around the globe simply as Ski Town, U.S.A.® No other town in North America has produced more winter Olympians than Steamboat Springs, a record 56 and counting. In fact, Steamboat sent more athletes (16) to the 2002 Games than many small countries and 2006 looks to add to that total.
***
Mt Hood Meadows
November 18, 2005 Edition MEADOWS OPEN DAILY FROM 9 AM - 4 PM! Meadows boasts some of the best early season conditions in the country! With 39 inches in the base area (N.W. Avalanche Center official telemetry reading) and five or more feet higher up, we're getting ready for a great weekend. All five high speed quads are scheduled to operate this weekend (Cascade Express weather permitting and Hood River Express to uplift passengers from HRM parking
PURCHASE ETickets ON LINE - PRINT THEM OUT ON YOUR PRINTER!
Now you can order tickets on line and print out the voucher on your own printer to be scanned at our E-Ticket Express Redemption Centers! You can purchase a variety of lift ticket and Snow Sports Learning Center packages. Our Express Redemption Centers are located at the Main Base Area Ticket Building, at the South Lodge EpiCenter and at the Hood River Meadows Skier Services Center.

Mother nature is on our side so far this November. Timberline Lodge went from 0 to 40 inches of snow on the ground in the last 17 days. The pacific storms were stacked one right after the other the last 2+ weeks. Today, the sun has come out and the ski conditions are excellent. Timberline's opening date of November 5 was the earliest opening in 5 years, so we hope this is a good indication of the winter to come. We have a group of ski racers and snowboard campers arriving today for our Thanksgiving camp, including 83 year old Fran Balice, from Big Sky, Montana. You're never too old to go to ski camp! We also have 2 camps scheduled over Christmas break, December 17 - 22, and December 26 - January
THANKSGIVING FEAST AT THE SPUR STEAKHOUSE NOV 24 Join us for a traditional Thanksgiving Dinner at Cooper Spur Mountain Resort. Make your reservation early as seating is limited. For parties of 8 or more we prepare a whole turkey for the table and you get to take home the leftovers! Call 541.352.6692 for details
Mt Hood Meadows

***

Squaw Valley

Make plans for the Holiday.
We are proud to announce that today is our opening day for the Cable Car and High Camp el. 8,200'. Squaw Valley is dishing up plenty of activities and fun for everyone over the Thanksgiving Holiday week. Take a trip up the scenic Cable Car and enjoy mountain top ice skating, have lunch at High Camp, visit the historic Olympic Museum, hike on Squaw Valley's beautiful mountain peaks and more!

WINTER FILM FESTIVAL - FRIDAY, NOV 25 The 6th Annual Winter Film Festival returns to Squaw Valley on Thanksgiving weekend - Nov 25. This year will feature the Tahoe premiere of Standard Films' Paradox. This exceptional snow board film features segments shot at Squaw Valley last season and several Squaw riders. In addition, we will screen three other new ski films, Omen Productions' Lines of Influence, Action Film Works' The Good Times are Killing me, and First Tracks Productions' Creative Differences. Films start at 6:30pm. Doors open at 6pm. Cover $5.
Squaw Events Calendar


Special Hotel Rates at The Village at Squaw Valley The Village at Squaw Valley 800-403-0206 Special Hotel rates for entire week, including weekends. One bedroom condo for $129, and $199 for a two bedroom condo.
Special Rates at the Squaw Valley Lodge Squaw Valley Lodge 800-403-0206 The Squaw Valley Lodge is Squaw Valley's Four Diamond awarded condominium suites resort, featuring world-class amenities and a true Ski-In/Ski-Out location,convenient to all of the areas' activities. Guests can unwind in the complimentary private Health Club and Spa with sauna, steam room, complete exercise facility, 3 indoor spas, and 3 outdoor spas. Massage therapy is available. Special Solstice rates starting at $119 through December 17, 2005.
Special Rates at the Olympic Village Inn Olympic Village Inn 800-403-0206 Our Solstice special for December 9 to December 15 is $89 midweek and $111 weekend for our standard Kitzbuhel unit.
Early Season Special: TWO DAYS/TWO NIGHTS plus a lesson for 2 People for as low as $179 per person** see site for details

Squaw Shop -Lift tickets, lessons & Season Passes
***
Vail and Beaver Creek
EARLY SEASON AND HOLIDAY SPECIALS

VAIL
Vail Mountain opened this morning with record breaking conditions! Over 6 feet of snow, 11 lifts servicing over 1000 acres - the best opening in over 10 years!
BEAVER CREEK
Opening Day is less than a week away! With the major amounts of snowfall, November 23rd will be an opening day not to miss!
Steamboat Springs OPENING DAY & EARLY HOLIDAY OFFER
The Wait is Over! The 2005/2006 ski season kicks off in style on November 23rd as Steamboat opens for business.
For a limited time stay in a Steamboat Resorts property and receive up to 30% off your lodging. Valid December 17-22, 2005
www.theresortcompany.com

SUN VALLEY, ID

SKI SEASON OPENS WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 23! Sun Valley Resort will open its 70th ski season one day early, Wednesday, November 23, 2005 at 9 am.Both Baldy and Dollar Mountains will open with the following lifts and terrain:River Run #1, Lookout Express #5 and Challenger #10.Ski conditions are subject to change, weather permitting
I spoke briefly with Sun Valley staff on Thursday.Temps on top of Baldy were 32 or below, cold enough to gun out snow.
I have skied, skated, & hiked Sun Valley. There is a unique feel that everyonw sould experience. The history, the first Lift associated, I believe built by the railroad. A classic, for beverage relaxation has got to be the "The Ram's Head". The village is a story in itself that everyone can enjoy. I am thankful that I finally made contact with Jack at Sun Valley and will be carrying the Sun Valley news, and Updates.

Red Lodge Montana
Surface Conditions Powder
Well, here we are, one week away from opening day. Things around here are getting ready pretty fast and the timely winter snow and temperatures has put everyone in the mood for the season to begin. So, talking about winter and snow, we have received a total of 34 inches of snow in Novemberd the snowmakers have made snow seven of the past ten days.
The decision will be made early next week as to what runs and lifts we will open with, definitely lower mountain stuff, and quite possibly some upper mountain runs and lifts. This information will be posted to our snow report section of our web site as soon as it is known.
This weekend is your last chance to purchase a season pass at the mid season rate. We will be in Cody on Saturday at the Ski Swap, CHS Stock Center, from 8:00am to noon and Sunday at Sunlight Sports, 1131 Sheridan Ave, from noon to 5:00pm selling the season passes and Six/Ten Tix and taking the pass photos. Then, starting Monday, November 21 all these operations will take place back up at the mountain ticket office.
Pabst Blue Ribbon presents...Buzz Dawgs Pabst is back as the Saturday music series sponsor and the Bierstube will be featuring it with the classic $6.00 pitcher of beer.
This fun trio will kick off the music in the Stube. Expect to hear great rock and roll from 2pm - 6pm after getting your ski/board legs worked out for a bit.
December 17 • Mountain Holiday Party Formerly the Jib Fest, today will feature demos from area shops, sign ups for Town Series Teams w/ course open on Bobcat, Winter Carnival info, & other boothes from sponsors.
December 24 • 4th Annual Charity Event
RLM is hosting a charity event for Eagle Mount and the Carbon Co Food Bank. Bring a food item, a personal care item or money and receive a discounted lift ticket, the food goes to the bank and Eagle Mount receives $5.
February 24 - 26 • Winter Carnival--Mardi Gras
Fat Tire Amber Ales brings us Winter Carnival: Mardi Gras. We will have the Cardboard Classic, the Fat Tire Frenzy Mountain Bike Race and a Jalepeno Eating Contest. Call Tera for more info at 446-2610x101
*** IOC , International Olympic Comittee #81,
Extracts

Awarding of the 9th Panathlon International Golden Torch Prizes
Panathlon International has awarded its Golden Torch Prizes to Gianna Angelopoulos-Daskalaki, former President of the Organising Committee for the 2004 Athens Olympic Games; Sergey Bubka, IOC Executive Board member and Chairman Nationality in sport. Issues and problems This was the theme of the seminar organised by the International Centre for Sports Studies (CIES) on 10 November. Gathered at the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, 138 participants from various countries discussed this topical subject...

The Olympic Games Study Commission presented its report to the 115th IOC Session in Prague in July 2003. The report contained a number of recommendations on how to reduce the size, cost and complexity of organising the Olympic

Dolomites Italy
DolomitiSuperSkiPremière: 03.12 – 23.12.2005 For all those who cannot wait to be on the slopes there is a special offer, First Snow, at the beginning of the season: from 3rd to 23rd December 2005 if you book a skiing holiday of 4 days you will get one day free. Those who stay 8 days will receive 2 days free. This offer applies to accommodation and skipass at all participating establishments in the open Dolomiti Superski areas. In addition, in this period many hotels have very advantageous pre-season prices and many ski schools and ski rentals offer reductions. Here you can choose your accommodation
Sunny weather in the most parts of the Dolomites. Due to the low temperatures it has had been possible to starting up the snow making machines.
Dolomitisuperski

***
Stowe
Stowe Mountain Resort ski and ride season set to begin on November 23rd! Snowmaking will resume on Thursday, along with forecasts for some natural snowfall, and we anticipate opening for the 05/06 season on Wednesday, November 23rd! Weather permitting, we will have the following facilities open...
Lifts: FourRunner Quad-Mansfield, Adventure Triple, Carpet Lift-Spruce Base lodges: Mansfield, Spruce
Services: Mansfield and Spruce retail/rental outlets

Stowe Vermont
***
SWISS Budget Hotels
Snow Week - Monday-Friday!
4 nights for 2 people in a double room with shower/WC breakfast included for only CHF 499.00!
Duration of our special winter offer
28th November 2005 to 23rd December 2005
2nd January 2006 to 7th April 2006
Swiss Budget Hotels situated in the most beautiful and famous ski resorts of Switzerland look forward to welcoming you to their hotel soon: Saas-Fee, Leysin, Engelberg,...
Book your stay from now on "Rediscover the joys of snow!"
Swiss Budget Hotels

Killington Resort re-opens Saturday at 8 a.m. with top-to-bottom terrain on 14 trails served by three lifts, including the K-1 Express Gondola.

REI

Alshan, Inner Mongolia
Alshan Ski Resort is located in Alshan city, Inner Mongolia, close to the boundary of China - Mongolia , surrounded by primitive forests, with the resort covering some 10KM? There are average snowing periods of 180days from Nov to Apr with soft Winds, while the resort contains mainly country and alpine trails.
This resort if also reaches downtown Alshan, there are two main trails, the western hill area covers 5.5KM?for competition and training and is professionally maintained, mainly for country skiing with 1500, 2000, 2500, 4000, 5000 trails, and the eastern hill area covers 4KM?for alpine ski and snow entertainment.
Every December Alshan holds an Ice & Snow Festival. It's a pretty resort and a lot of fun if you're looking to get off the track a bit.

And this guy just isn't doing his job YET. Yo Frosty, How about some Snow?

Photo credit: bigfoto.com/


Alyeska
Nov 19 Tentative Opening Day Ski/Snowboard Operations
Nov 24 Thanksgiving Dinner at Seven Glaciers Restaurant
Nov 25 Sears Mall Gift Certificate Sales Begin
Nov 30 5-day Ski/Snowboard Operations Begin (Tentative)

***
To find information on a resort or topic, type subject into field "Search this Blog" at top left of page

SEATTLE — Ski Washington, the consortium of all Washington ski areas, is pleased to announce the launch of the official “Ski & Ride Washington” license plates. The “Ski & Ride Washington” license plate design will be unveiled at a press conference Tuesday, November 15, 2005 at 11:30 a.m. at Westlake Park in downtown Seattle at an event that is open to the public.

Famed ski film director Warren Miller and former Washington Gov. Gary Locke will be on hand for a short presentation as well as representatives from all 10 Washington ski areas. The license plates will be available to the public and issued by the Washington Department of Licensing beginning Tuesday, January 3, 2006.

Snow Alert: 42 Inches at Vail

Alpine Meadows
Stay & Ski Free for as little as $59. Includes room, lift ticket and free shuttle to Alpine Meadows. Book yours today at 800–949-3296.

Sugar Bowl
Christmas Tree Lift is being upgraded to a new High Speed Quad with a little help from our friends in the Chopper and the Mt. Judah Day Lodge expansion is out of the dirt. We're building as fast as we can so the 12,000 square foot addition with its new bar, restaurant, family area and private meeting space will be ready in time for the season.



Bear Valley
Bear Valley's new partnership effectively merges accommodations, real estate and the ski area (previously disjointed entities), which will result in positive changes for the Mountain Resort and Village. The vision for Bear Valley is clear: improve and redevelop the ski area, build a lift that connects the Village to the Mountain and construct new condominiums and retail space in the village at the base of the lift. Bear Valley Mountain Resort’s new COO, Jim Gentling, says revitalization plans are underway. "In just 90 days we've spent over a half-million dollars on the sunroom remodel, new snow cats, new buses and other maintenance programs." Gentling noted. "In addition, ski area departments managers are participating in intensive training and orientation programs to lead a seasonal staff with a fresh commitment to superior customer service."
These initial upgrades are just the beginning of a broad master plan to redevelop the area, with a clear focus on maintaining Bear Valley’s unspoiled beauty and family-friendly appeal. If you would like to be kept informed on the redevelopment plans and future real estate ventures in Bear Valley Village



Whistler Blackcomb
For those of you who ski and ride Whistler Blackcomb on a regular basis, you'll be thrilled to see some of the changes we've made to terrain this year. Moving thousands of cubic metres of materials around the mountains – taking material to create better fall lines through some zones, and adding that material to other sites to widen runs and gathering zones – is what our expert crews have spent the summer doing. When the mountains open, these improvements will help you navigate more efficiently and enjoyably through some of the more popular spots on the mountains.
For those of you who'll be visiting Whistler Blackcomb for the first time this winter, then enjoy! We've been working hard to ensure your experience here is world class, in every way.
BIGGER AND BETTER FAMILY ZONE. BETTER FAMILY ZONE. With its increase in size and move to Ego Bowl, it's creating a better experience for families and beginners . Plus traffic flow will be better this year as access to the terrain park and the Family Zone has been separated, ensuring that everyone can head to their own favourite spots safely.

TUBE PARK.
Get ready to have a blast - day or night - in Blackcomb's new TUBE PARK, opening December 16, 2005. Complete with 6-8 lanes rated from green to black diamond, and accessed via a new tube-friendly, carpet-style lift, the TUBE PARK is expected to go off this winter! It'll offer family fun for all ages – whether young or simply young at heart – and will include a concession stand and fire pits to warm cold fingers and toes. It's located just above Base II by Parking Lot 8, and will be accessible via the Excalibur Gondola long after the lifts close to skiing and riding.
MAINLINE

Everyone will enjoy the IMPROVED SKI-OUTS on Blackcomb Mountain with wider runs and more gradual slopes that will help to ease end-of-day traffic. For example, 60,000 cubic metres/2.1 million cubic feet of earth, plus 20,000 cubic metres/706,000 cubic feet of rock has been moved from MAINLINE to widen and grade. Plus, major work has taken place on EASY OUT to improve the terrain for Ski and Snowboard School and beginners. HARMONY RIDGE
HARMONY RIDGE has been widened and graded, the landing zone (gathering area) at the top of the JERSEY CREAM lift has quadrupled in size, and the bottom of the BLACKCOMB GLACIER (before you reach the Blackcomb Glacier Road – don't get too excited), has been smoothed out and widened to create a much better experience.
JERSEY CREAM

NINTENDO TERRAIN PARK riders will be stoked to find out that this zone will open way earlier this year. The material removed from EASY OUT has been moved to this zone and dirt table tops and various other features have been built already. According to Blackcomb's Grooming Manager, this zone will open with just a foot of snow on it!
TERRAIN PARK

Over on Whistler Mountain, the top of the RED CHAIR gathering zone has been expanded in size and is four times the width that it was, plus skiers/riders will be encouraged to ski off the right side from the top of the chair directly down to the PEAK CHAIR. UPPER WHISKEY JACK is wider this year and is now 35 metres/115 feet wide from just 12 metres/39 feet wide, and we've already told you about the great improvements to the Family Zone.
UPPER WHISKEY JACK
All these improvements will benefit all ability levels of skiers and riders as they explore our mountains. For those craving more extreme adventures, don't worry, we haven't taken away any of your fun. There are still dozens of steep, tight chutes to navigate down, cornices to launch off, tree glades to explore, and natural features to hit to your heart's content.
ADVANCED SNOWMAKING
To improve your early and late season mountain experience, ADVANCED SNOWMAKING technology as well as increased capacity will be in place on Whistler Mountain by November, including the addition of automatic guns to improve snowmaking efficiency. Whistler Blackcomb purchased 10 new automated snow guns, the latest in snowmaking technology.

Snow alert for:
Whistler Blackcomb, B.C.
Jackson Hole, wy
Hintertux, Austria

*** STEAMBOAT GEARS UP FOR OPENING DAY AS WINTER STORM BRINGS OVER A FOOT OF CHAMPAGNE POWDER
With 16 inches of fresh Champagne Powder® snow falling in the past 48 hours and continuing steadily throughout the day, the Steamboat Ski Area prepares for the kick off to the 2005/2006 season next Wednesday, November 23, 2005. “Year after year, Steamboat consistently receives great early season snow and this year is no exception,” said Doug Allen, Vice President of Mountain Operations for Steamboat. “From a steady snowfall all morning that is expected to keep up throughout the day and into the evening, we’re looking forward to opening for the season next week.”

Frosty says" yes the overnight temps have been cold enough to GUN the snow, however day time temps around the Tahoe basin are high enough that any snow sprayed at night would melt off quick. Thus justification ,....a financial issue and practicality. So, until the day time highs lower, don't count on man made snow to pick up the slack on some planned opening days ( Lake Tahoe )

Squaw Valley STUDENT Discount
College Student Discount Coupon
College Students Ski/Ride Squaw for
$43
(with this coupon)
Every Tues, Wed & Thursday all Season
Except Dec 28-30

NOTE: YOU MUST register and print this online coupon AND BRING IT WITH YOU AND YOUR STUDENT ID IN ORDER TO RECEIVE THE DISCOUNT.
Please remember that if you plan to visit more than one day you will need a separate coupon for each day so remember to print enough.
Squaw Valley MID-WEEK STUDENT COUPON
Join us for our 6th Annual Squaw Valley USA Film Festival. Friday, November 25th. Click here for more info Come see the latest ski and snowboard films by local Tahoe film makers shot at amazing Tahoe and Sierra Nevada mountain locations!
Squaw Valley USA, ......got KT

STUBAI
Season kick-off 18. - 20. November 2005
Where in the world was Matt Lauer,....
Under the motto “Free your heel”, the national and international Telemark elite, will meet at the Stubaier Glacier, Austria’s largest Glacier ski resort and one of the hot spots of the telemark community.

This year’s program of the 5th Stubaier Telemark Festival promises many highlights:
Loads of hot freestyle action with spectacular jumps and slope style techniques, a Telemark trade show with the latest trends. In addition you can test the latest materials, participate in Workshops and just have fun in one of the Telemark parties in Neustift.

For the 5th time, the international Telemark elite will show why the free-heel winter sport has become such a popular fun sport in the US and Canada. Next to the traditional Telemark style, the new school jumps and slope style techniques continues to fascinate many more fans in Europe each year. Come and see for yourself. The festival will take place from 18th – 20th of November at the Stubaier Glacier, a fascinating ski and Telemark resort at 3.000 meters. A lot of pros will show off so it is also a good opportunity for beginners to mingle with the experts. A trade show will allow visitors to see the latest trends and discuss their needs with the industry. Of course you can also try the latest materials.
The free style shows will take place on Saturday and Sunday at 2pm. The US stars Ty Dayberry, Jory Decker and Mark Tyzen will show-off their expertise in half-pipe and on the kicker.
On Friday night, the Telemark movie festival and on Saturday night, the Telemark party in the Dorf Pub promises a superb festival. Free your heel and free your mind.
Book a personal workshop with the US Stars Ty Dyberry, Jory Decker und Mark Tyzen.
Stubai-Glacier Austria


Beaver Creek Beaver Creek turns 25 this year Celebrate with a resort-wide anniversary party January 6-8, 2006, and watch for special packages throughout the season. Don’t miss Bode Miller’s only United States appearance in this Olympic year as he tackles all four events - Super G, Birds or Prey Downhill, Giant Slalom and Slalom - at the 2005 Visa Birds or Prey World Cup Week, Nov. 29-Dec. 4. Indulge at the Beaver Creek Culinary Classic & Celebrity Chef Ski Race, Feb. 2-5, 2006, featuring savory and sweet creations by some of the nation’s finest chefs selected by Bon Appetit. Determine Beaver Creek’s signature chocolate chip cookie to be handed out daily by Operation Cookie chefs at the second annual Beaver Creek Cookie Competition, Nov. 23, 2005. Party Latin-style at the new Fiesta Primavera festival April 8-16, 2006. In addition, feel the thighs burn and the heart pump with popular The Talons Challenge -a quest to conquer 13 of the resort’s most challenging runs. Those who have skied or snowboarded the 23,722 vertical feet in a day can tell you it’s worth the rush, not to mention bragging rights and recognition on the “Wall of Fame”. A new high-speed quad replaces the triple chair Larkspur Lift (#11), making the reward that much sweeter. ***
New Snow :
Loveland 8"
Breckenridge 15 in.
***
IOC News updated

CALIFORNIA EXPOSITION CENTER 1600 Exposition Blvd., Hall A • Sacramento, CA 95815 Saturday: 11am-8pm / Sunday 11am-5pm Sat & Sun
Nov 19th & 20th

A Sacramento area offer! This is a SuperLift Ticket program to attendees choice of Northstar-At-Tahoe Or Sierra-At-Tahoe Resort. This will give everyone who purchases a Regular Adult Admission ticket to the Sacramento Ski & Snowboard Show a Free Bonus of an Adult Mid-Week Lift Ticket Voucher worth up to $63.00 value! Lift tickets are good at either Northstar-At-Tahoe Or Sierra-At-Tahoe Resort, valid Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday throughout the entire 2005/2006 season excluding blackout dates. Blackout dates are December 27-29, 2005 and February 21-23, 2006.
A 20’ x 70’ indoor teaching ski school ramp, allows first-time skiers of all ages to take their first lesson of the season. Certified instructors and equipment ar included.
-And many of the Sierra's resorts, Alpine, Booth Creek resorts, Heavenly and more. Treat yourself to a good time and a chance to find good bargins on skis, boards and accessories.The PennySaver Million Dollar Ski & Snowboard Equipment Sale! Retailers will be offering hard & soft goods and accessories for sale at discounted pricing at this Giant Sale of the year!
Sacramento Snow
*** The Sac Snow event is co-produced by the Jim and Judy of Ski Dazzle that presented the San Jose and Chicago shows. These two and staff have been getting winter sports fans "fired up" before the season since 1980. I hada chance to speak with Jim after the San Jose show this weekend and look back and recount memories of different shows over the years. Ok, so a little pizza after the show with the big wheels had something to do with this supplimental remender. Good people with a Great Show, go enjoy all that the show offers!

Kitzbühel Tourism


While our visitors are still enjoying their walks and nordic walking in the autumn sun, preparations for the coming winter are being completed behind the scenes, with new hotels and bars plus various new or upgraded facilities in the ski area waiting to be discovered. Winter Start
From 8 to 11 December Kitzbühel will be opening the new winter season with a veritable firework of events, including a Joni Madden open-air concert, après-ski parties, ski tests, free ski tuition, the Hahnenkamm Sprint Cup, illuminated evening skiing and boarding and much else besides! Exclusive "Winter Start" packages with 3 nights' stay, 4-day lift pass start from Euro 174,00 per person.

The magic of advent in Kitzbühel
The traditional Christmas market held from 26 November to 24 December will be the prefect place to look and admire or stop and sample the many delights. Book now: "Advent Star" package comprising 4 nights' stay with breakfast, guided walks or snow-shoe expeditions, mulled wine and wellness offering (swimming, sauna, massage) from Euro 172,00 per person.

THE MAGIC OF ADVENT IN KITZBüHEL
FROM 26 NOV - 24 DEC 2005
Kitzbühel in the pre-Christmas period – getting away from it all. "Advent Star" package from Euro 172,00 per person


KITZBüHEL KEEPING ONE STEP AHEAD
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Kitzbühel keeping one step ahead as an exciting resort with a healthy future Latest developments more

As one of the leading tourism destinations in the Alps, Kitzbühel is determined not to rest on its laurels. That is clear from the major innovations now in place for the coming winter season, as announced by Kitzbühel’s Director of Tourism Renate Danler. The list starts with the addition of 400 beds in the high-end hotel segment. One of the resort’s most prominent establishments is the 5-star A-ROSA Hotel, which has 100 bedrooms and 50 suites plus a 3,000 sq.m. wellness area. Another is the new Kaiserhotel (formerly the Montana), an excellent 4-star hotel with 51 bedrooms and suites which is located right next to the Hahnenkamm cablecar and has a special focus on winter sports. In total, Kitzbühel now offers more than 2,600 beds in the four- and five-star categories.

Following last year’s addition to the lift and cablecar network in the form of the spectacular 3S tricable gondola linking the Kitzbühel and Jochberg ski areas, the focus this year – in addition to the regular modernization program – has been on snowmaking. Construction of a reservoir with a storage capacity of some 180,000 cubic meters at Resterhöhe makes it possible to include another 30 hectares of ski trail in the snowmaking system this year, rising to 85 hectares in a second phase of development. In addition, the Ki-West gondola now provides access to the Kitzbühel winter sport area from Skiwelt Westendorf, while the brand-new Panoramabahn Kitzbüheler Alpen connects Hollersbach/Mittersill in the Salzburg region with the larger Kitzbühel ski area for – literally – unlimited skiing pleasure!

Kitzbühel
Art Designs :Kitzbühel Tourism archives/ Logo

Vail Resorts
World Cup at Beaver Creek
December 1-4, 2005

An Olympic Preview in Beaver Creek! This December 1-4, you can get up close and personal with the titans of the international ski racing circuit, including the defending world champion, our very own Bode Miller. World Cup racing is held in Beaver Creek December 1-4 and alongside the action on the slopes, Beaver Creek has a four-day long party featuring two concerts plus a bunch of apres-ski activities!

* All dates are weather dependant and subject to change.

Keystone and Breckenridge Opening day
The line for first chair started early at Keystone and Breckenridge today with everyone excited for the beginning of the ski season! Vail and Heavenly open next Friday, November 18, and
Beaver Creek opens Wednesday, November 23

Vail Resorts Management Company
Vail | Beaver Creek | Breckenridge | Keystone | Heavenly | RockResorts
137 Benchmark Road
Avon, CO 81620
Vail Resorts -Snow




Heavenly Heavenly is celebrating 50 Epic years with a super-sized block party, the largest half pipe in Lake Tahoe, more tree skiing, a new night terrain park, improved snowmaking, and a twice-daily grooming schedule!
Heavenly Valley

Visited with Heavenly marketing staff on Fri at
BAY AREA SNOW SHOW ,...see news pages here for more info
San Jose Convention Center
Fri was my First face to face with Jackson Hole staff and Big Sky Mt. also a chance to revisit with Jim Of SnowBomb, Kirkwood marketing


I have been told off a loss in a community very close to my home.I missed a chance to meet new members of Sugar Bowl at Bay Area Snow Show due to the death of a valued member of Sugar Bowl -( Norden, Soda Springs ) area.
I am sorry for your loss!

Italian Dolomites

Only 15 days to go to the start of the Dolomiti Superski season. The first uphill lift facilities will open in some areas on 26th November and all is ready for a great fun time on 1,220 km of slopes, accessible with one single chip-skipass.
The snow of Saturday 5th November has covered the peaks above 1600 metres and the temperatures are dropping so we are busy at work ensuring the slopes are well snow covered for you and as we write 90% are already in fine shape!
New Lifts

Cortina d'Ampezzo
- 4-seater chairlift with automatic coupling "Padeon" (2.160 p/h) replaces double chairlift
- 6-seater chairlift with automatic coupling "Roncato Festis (Tofana Express) (2.200 p/h replaces chairlifts
"Col Taron" and "Piè Merlo"

Kronplatz
- 8-person cabin lift with automatic coupling "Pedagà-Piz de Plaies (p/h 2.200) replaces 3-seater chairlift
Pedagà and double chairlift Piz de Plaies (S. Vigil)
- 8-person cabin lift with automatic coupling "Cianross" (p/h 1.200) replaces skilift Cianross (S. Vigil)
- 8-person cabin lift with automatic coupling "Korer" (p/h 2.200) replaces skilift (Brunico)
- New cabin lift with automatic coupling "Lorenzi" (p/h 2.200) (Valdaora)
- New slopes Korer, Cianross and Lorenzi

Alta Badia
- 4-seater chairlift with automatic coupling "Pralongià II" (p/h 1.800) replaces skilift
- 4-seater covered chairlift with automatic coupling "Pradüc" (p/h 1.200) replaces double chairlift
- double chairlift "Pre dai Corf" (p/h 1200) replaces old chairlift

Val Gardena/Alpe di Siusi
- new double chair lift "Val" (p/h 1200) in Selva Val Gardena connects Vallunga with the Danterceppies skiarea
- 4-seater covered chairlift with automatic coupling "Mont Seura" (p/h 2.200) replaces double chairlift
- 4-seater chairlift with automatic coupling "Sochers" (p/h 2.200) replaces old skilift

Val di Fassa/Carezza
Increasing of the capacity of the cabin car "Campitello-Col Rodella" to 1.200 p/h

Arabba/Marmolada
- Funifor "Arabba-Portavescovo" (p/h 700) replaces cable car
- Third part of the cable car "Serauta-Punta Rocca" (p/h 960) replaces old cable car (Marmolada)

Fiemme/Obereggen
- 8-person cabin lift with automatic coupling "Dosso Larici - Cermis" (p/h 2.400) replaces cable car
- 6-seater covered chairlift with automatic coupling "Absam Meierl" (p/h 2.800) replaces 4-seater chair lift
(Obereggen) - new slope "Meierl", medium-difficult-length 1.850 with snow making facilities (Obereggen)

S. Martino di Castrozza/Passo Rolle
- 4-seater chairlift with automatic coupling "Rododendro" (Tognola) (p/h 1.800) replaces double chairlift
- skilift "Baby" (Tognola) (p/h 720) replaces old skilift

Tre Valli
- 4-seater covered chairlift with automatic coupling "Costabella" (p/h 2.400) replaces 3-seater chairlift
- 4-seater covered chairlift with automatic coupling "Saline-Laresi" (p/h 2.400) in Falcade replaces skilift Laresi
- New slope "Nuova Cima Uomo" with compact snow making facilities
- new slope Saline - Malghette
- new Snow Park in the "Le Buse" skiarea

You can see for yourself Dolomiti Superski

Red Lodge Mountain
2400 feet of Rocky Mountain vertical will entice any winter sports enthusiast to try the mountain once. But there’s something special that keeps bringing people back year after year – the Western Hospitality of the Town of Red Lodge. Nestled at the foot of the Beartooth Mountains, Red Lodge’s historic downtown features unique shops, restaurants and hotels, and offers a variety of family-oriented activities.
Much of the downtown business district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and all of the businesses are locally owned and operated. The warmth and hospitality you encounter when visiting Red Lodge comes from the small town flavor and laid back attitude of the locals Coming up:
November 25 • Opening Day We are opening this Friday. Please call our reservations office to book your vacation at 1-800-444-8977. November 25 & 26 • Pasbt Blue Ribbon presents....The Buzz Dawgs This fun trio will kick off the music in the Stube. Expect to hear great rock and roll from 2pm - 6pm after getting your ski/board legs worked out for a bit.
Red Mountain Lodge
***
MAMMOTH IS OPEN! After much anticipation, our Big Day is finally here! First chair took off at 8:15 this morning. When will you hit the slopes?Mother Nature did her part in creating awesome conditions for Opening Day. A storm rolled in this week, dumping 11 inches of fresh snow on Mammoth Mountain. Snowmakers have worked hard doing their part as well. Broadway sits beautifully awaiting you with a 12 to 18 inch base of man-made and machine-groomed snow.Today we will operate Broadway Express with access to four trails: Broadway, Fascination, Far West and Powder Bowl. There will be limited rails and boxes available to skiers/riders right of Broadway.Come have a blast on the hill today and hang around for the weekend. Don't miss our Opening Celebration on Saturday, November 12. Forum Youngblood Rail Jam kicks off at 10:30 a.m. followed by Tungsten City Band taking the stage at 11:30. We will be starting the season off right with a ribbon cutting and champagne toast celebrating our new Broadway Marketplace. And come hungry for a free hot dog at 2 p.m. on the sundeck, while supplies last!Ski and ride with care - early season obstacles do exist!See you on the slopes!
Mammoth Mountain

STOWE
The ski Capitol of the East
Rail Jam
WHO: Some of the best jibbers and grinders around.
WHAT: The 2005 Center City Rail Jam.
WHERE: Downtown Burlington. St. Paul and Main.
WHEN: Friday, November 11th from 6 - 9pm.
WHY: Why not? The mountain isn't open yet...

Stowe
Go stowe A resort sposorong a dry slope event, works for me

Update:
Tracie has been kind enough to extend access of her photos to Endlesswinter
Known as Quick Chick, 142.200 Mph( very well qualified ), here is her schedule for the season ahead.For those interested in her World and that of a greart speed Skier, have a long look at QUICK CHICK or general info on Speed skiing
Speed Ski
Tracie Max Sachs 2005 SPEED SKI Schedule
142.200 Mph
Date Location Event

Jan 26-31 Salla (Fin) FIS World Cup
Feb 11-13 Goldeck (Aut) FIS World Cup
Feb 18-20 Reute (Aut) FIS World Cup
March 4-6 Sun Peaks (Can) World Cup (2 Races)
March 9-11 Leysin (Sui)FIS World Cup (2 races)
March 19-20 Les Arcs (Fra) Open French champ.
March 31- April 2 Cervinia (Ita) 2005 World Champ.
April 3 Cervinia (Ita) FIS World Cup
April 4-8 Hundfjallet (Swe) FIS World Cup
April 9-10 Les Arcs (Fra)Red Rock Cup
April 11-13 Verbier (Sui) 2005 FIS W.C. Final
April 14-17 Verbier (Sui) Pro Mondial
April 18-23 Les Arcs (Fra) 2005 Pro Mondial Final

Quick Chick
Photo: Traci Max Sachs
***
Lovers of art, Chamonix and the Alps should check out the London Chamonix Connection – an art exhibition coming up later this month. The exhibition is studio 50, Carnwath Rd, London SW6 on 11th, 12th & 13th November 2005 Over the weekend there will also be films, slide shows and presentations. Check out the website for the show to have a preview of the artists work and all the other exhibitors. Beer To add to the apres ski feel the famous ‘MBC’ – the local in Chamonix for many of the artists - is coming along with just a few kegs of their home brew! Exhibiting artists include: Cornelius Wright An English painter who has been based in Chamonix for the last four years. Andy Parkin Andy has lived in Chamonix for over 22 years and has been on expeditions to most of the world’s mountain ranges. . John Norris A freelance photographer based in Chamonix Valley since 1986, it was the high mountains and glacial scenery that drew him to the French Alps. He strives to maintain a balance between producing commercial work and his passion for capturing images for personal pleasure. London Chamonix


***
Since you asked, a reply to a "Comment".Endless Winter started long ago. After seeing the Warren Miller movie "Endless Summer", years later, Bob Hutchins, Greg Linde offered me a part time position at Moving Mountain San Carlos California.I was able to lead groups on the weekends to Lake Tahoe, attend school in the mornings at College of San Mateo then ski in the evenings and through the summer. I never lost that bliss despite the 220 mile commute.At that time Oshman's had a fleet of Large indoor Magic Carpet ( rolling ) dry slopes.In the first era of freestyle, I was really excited about ballet now called acro, It was all just a variation of ice skating with a 16 degree hill thrown in to keep it interesting.That era faded and the popularity of moving mountians with the economic pressures of what to do with a 25' x 30'+ indoor slope during the summer.Life happened
There were times when trying to scrape up enough for a lift ticket was an issue. Believe me, I have had some very lean times. I have slept inside a utility room of ski jump to save enough cash for my so called apree' social activities. Ramen for dinner in 31 altered flavors was necessary if I wanted to epoxy the Marrianias trench left as reminder of my visit behind Alpine Meadows boundaries to Ward peak or Twin peaks or up Shirley Canyon. While most skis loose a few milligrams of weight with each base grind, the "Zebra" skis I had at the time seemed to get heavier with each layer of Mean green cement, plugs and sidewall patches.Time went on,..and a couple seasons ago my damn foot was affecting the shape of my turns on a conscious level. Finally, I went to a Podiatrist , a Facia was in for surgery( #1) and I was in for some news thatI really didn't want to hear under any conditions while in the current three dimensional realm.But, universe management was beyond my control and a season was cut short.Therapy costs, the local economy,,....I wondered if I would even Want to ski as a wounded part time-er'. Then a random e-mail from the othe side of the world landed in my lap. John. a retired Silcone valley engineer wanted to know how does someone buy a dry slope,A BIG ONE ....I thought heaven was being delivered and eventually John purchased one of the remaining Moving Mountain machines and somehow that August, restarted a cycle. I know there are some great data driven sites out there.But it isn't about just how many lifts or other stats or Condo Cams network. At some point I didn't see a web link for Hiking Mt Dana in May , June etc for a few turns. I have yet to see a magazine article on Danny or other guys that are hiking Round Top Sonoara pass every third weekend of July for the last 12 = years for a few turns. Full Circle
Other than a site in the UK that covers Indoor slopes or Dry slopes, I thought, why Not? So I called The Miller Office to avoid an issues with the name or color scheme of the logo and off I went. With the help of a many friends and influences that I will try to mention *Thank* from time to time.

New additions to equipment section:

Also glad to have Tahoe Mountain Sports as an retail affiliate
Tahoe Mountain Sports

Booster Strap! Boosts your performance!
Snow Report updated
Kirkwood Ca, has some freshness to add to the base layer. Crystal Wa builds on a growing base.See Crystal's site for information regarding local sale this weekend

Word from Kashmir is that the Gondola has survived the major earthquake. A new link to the Kashmir Resort has been added.
Photo: Ido Neigher
*** Red Mountain Montana reports new snowfall and will open VERY soon,but advises not to hike for those first tracks YET.
***
A little closer to home
Mammoth Mountain Opening Day
Nov 10 - Mammoth Mountain Opening Day
Opening Day is ON for November 10! Temps are cool and winter is all around at Mammoth Mountain. As the snowmaking crew covers the slopes in white this week we're wondering.. Sat Nov 12 - Forum Youngblood Contest Series Think you have what it takes to get sponsored? Put your skills where your mouth is at a world renowned Forum Youngblood Series event at Mammoth's Main Lodge. Registration will be on the 3rd floor of the Main Lodge at 9:00am. Contest starts at 10:30am. Winners will have a chance to compete in the finals where they will duke it out on a custom Snow Park Technologies park setup against other winners from around the world, ride with the Forum team, and possibly earn a spot on the Forum Youngblood crew. For more information please call 760.934.0645 or click on the link above. Sat Nov 12 - Opening Celebration Opening day has finally come! Join us in celebrating the beginning of a new season with live music from 11:30am to 3:30pm , a champagne toast at 11:00am, complimentary ski/ride tips from 1:00pm to 3:00pm, the Forum Youngblood Rail Jam at 10:30am and more... Fore detailed information please click on the link above. Sat Nov 19 - Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center Opening Day Weather permitting. Wed Nov 23 - Canyon Lodge, Village Gondola and Little Eagle Opening Day Thu Nov 24 - Thanksgiving Day Fri Nov 25 to Sat Nov 26 - Tree Lighting Ceremony at The Village at Mammoth Don't miss the official arrival of Santa and the kick-off to the winter holiday season! Come to the Village to see Santa and his reindeer at the official lighting of our 30-foot Christmas tree with carolers, hot cider, Christmas stories, s'mores and more! There will be an outdoor Christmas movie showing and a special performance by the Dharma Drum Circle. Bundle up for this special occasion that only happens once a year. For more information please click on the link above.

Don't miss out! The California Snowsports Expo in San Jose is the perfect event to get you in the mood for the winter season.
>> Friday, November 11, 3pm - 10pm
>> Saturday, November 12, 10am - 8pm
>> Sunday, November 13, 10am - 5pm
Bay Area Snow Show

SOLDEN
Results Nokia FIS Snowboard Worldcup Opening 2005 Isabelle Blanc (FRA) wins before Amelie Kober (GER) and Daniela Meuli (SUI)
Women Top 10
Rank .. Name .. Nation
1 BLANC Isabelle FRA
2 KOBER Amelie GER
3 MEULI Daniela SUI
4 POMAGALSKI Julie FRA
5 BRUHIN Ursula SUI
6 RANIGLER Carmen ITA
7 GORGONE Michelle USA n
8 BOCCACINI Corinna ITA
9 KOHLI Fraenzi SUI
10 KRINGS Doresia AUT

complete result list women: ~ FIS ski
SOLDEN
State-of-the-art mountain railways featuring a total capacity of 68,000 persons per hour, guarantee ultimate skiing fun without queuing
• 63 km of red ski runs (intermediate)
• 53 km of blue trails (easy)
• 28 km of black pistes and
• 6 km of skiroutes are available.
Solden Photo: Guido Mangold / Solden



Valle d'Aosta IT
Monterosa, Valle d'Aosta valleys. A day in the Monterosa Ski that everyone can enjoy. Snow&Feelings, the agency of Monterosa Ski dedicated to the packages and the complete satisfaction of our hosts. Paola Turchetti has predisposed all the instruments in order to create a personalized package. A good price!

For Assistance visiting Valle d'Aosta in N.Italy
Snow&Feelings Agency
Route Ramey, 69
11020 Champoluc - Ayas - AO - ITALY
Tel. (+39) 0125/303,168 - Fax (+39) 0125/303.148
agenzia@monterosa-ski.com

SQUAW
SNOW HAS FALLIN'
ONLY 14 DAYS TILL OPENING DAY!


WINTER FILM FESTIVAL - COMING NOV 25
The 6th Annual Winter Film Festival returns to Squaw Valley on Thanksgiving weekend - Nov 25. This year will feature the Tahoe premiere of Standard Films' Paradox. This exceptional snow board film features segments shot at Squaw Valley last season and several Squaw riders. In addition, we will screen two other new ski films, Lines of Influence by Itai Nemovicher and Omen Productions and Duane Kubischta's The Good Times are Killing me. Films start at 6:30pm. Doors open at 6pm. Cover $5.

*** Timberline
(Saturday, THE 5TH) ....Bruno says' let's OPEN
Real Lodge, Real Mountain, Real People...really good deals! * Winter's here folks! It's snowing in the Cascades... snowing heavily! We are opening tomorrow (Saturday, THE 5TH). For snow and road conditions, and hours of operation, check out our website at www.timberlinelodge.com or call the SnoPhone at 503 222-2211.
* Ski Fever: This is the weekend for Portland's biggest and best ski and snowboard show. It is called Ski Fever and it is at the Multnomah Expo Center this Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Stop by our booth to learn all about Timberline and to purchase a season pass at the discounted rate. Rates go up on November 7, so buy your pass at the ski show to save money!
* Skool Kard: The Timberline Skool Kard is a new discount card for skiers and snowboarders ages13-17. Pick up your free Skool Kard at our booth at Ski Fever or at any of the participating ski shops in Portland. Show it at the Timberline ticket office and receive a $5 discount any time, every time! The Skool Kard is also honored at area ski shops for special discounts. Go to www.skoolkard.com for details.
Best wishes from Timberline. Real Lodge, Real Mountain, Real People...really good deals!
Timberlinelodge

MAMMOTH to open NOV 10th $56 adult Value Season lift tickets available at the ticket counter through November 22, 2005. Join us for Opening Celebration November 12, 2005 at Main Lodge: 10:30am - Forum Youngblood Rail Jam 11am - Broadway Marketplace Ribbon Cutting & Champagne Toast 11:30am - 3:30pm - Tungsten City Band 1-3pm - Complimentary Ski and Snowboard Tips 2pm - Free Hot Dogs (while supplies last)
***
BIG WHITE
Whether you are skiing or snowboarding, you can SKI FOR FREE by simply booking your accommodation with Big White Central Reservations or Silver Star Holidays now! That's right, you can stay at either of our great resorts in ski-in / ski-out accommodation and take advantage of our consistent early season ski conditions and get your lift tickets for free.
The Ski Free offer is valid on bookings from November 23 - December 15, 2005. Click here for complete package information.
Big White and Silver Star consistently offer the best early season conditions anywhere. In fact, we are confident enough to provide a Snow Guarantee on natural snow conditions. If we are unable to operate a least one lift due to lack of snow you can select to change your accommodation package to another available date or cancel at no penalty whatsoever.
Big White
Silver Star
cenres@bigwhite.com for reservations

*****

IOC News
TORINO 2006 The Olympic Winter Games will be held in Turin from 10 to 26 February 2006. The Winter Games comprise seven different sports and 15 different disciplines, which will be played out in eight different competition sites. Around 2,500 athletes, 650 judges and umpires and one million spectators are expected to participate in this 20th edition of the Winter Games.
Nov 4 2005
The 60th Session of the United Nations General Assembly has passed the Olympic Truce Resolution, put forward by the nation of Italy on behalf of the IOC, and entitled “Building a peaceful and better world through sport and the Olympic ideal.” The Resolution, which comes ahead of the XX Olympic Winter Games – Torino 2006, was sponsored by 190 member states of the General Assembly. The passing of the Olympic Truce Resolution by the General Assembly demonstrates the role of sport as a means of promoting peace throughout the world. During the vote, the IOC was represented by IOC members Guy Drut and Ibrahim Diallo, as well as Tommy Sithole, the director of the IOC’s International Cooperation and Development department.
More IOC Stories and NewsInternational Olympic Committe

IT has been snowing in the Sierra's above 6500'
Sugar bowl
Wow... is it busy around here! Christmas Tree Lift is being upgraded to a new High Speed Quad with a little help from our friends in the Chopper and the Mt. Judah Day Lodge expansion is out of the dirt. We're building as fast as we can so the 12,000 square foot addition with its new bar, restaurant, family area and private meeting space will be ready.
SUGARWOOD PASS -
Sugar Bowl and Kirkwood
That's right Sugar Bowl and Kirkwood are teaming up again for this incredible pass! New this year, an Unrestricted Adult Pass!!
SugarWood Pass
Adult 23-59 $449 *
Youth (13-22) $449**
Senior (60-69) $449**
Unrestricted Adult $999

Sugar Bowl Holiday Dates: *Valid Sun.- Fri., excluding (holidays)12/26/05-1/1/06, 1/15/06, 2/19/06-2/20/06. Unrestricted prior to 12/26/05 and after 3/26/06. Kirkwood Holiday Dates:
*Valid Sun.-Fri., excluding (holidays) 12/27/05-12/31/05, 1/14/05-1/15/06 & 2/18/06-2/19/06 **7-day, Non-holiday
Age is determined for season pass by your age on 1/1/06.

**** Kirkwood Pray for Snow Parties November 14th @ Coyote Grill, Gardnerville, NV 6PM Monday night football and Pray for snow party. Swag prizes from Kirkwood and a chance to win lift tickets
November 17th @ Nero’s in Caesars-at-Tahoe starting 10PM, FREE drinks from 10-1 Swag prizes from Kirkwood and a chance to win lift tickets and a pair of skis from Salomon.
KIRKWOOD OPENS UP NEW TERRITORY

This winter season, advanced skiers and riders can participate in guided hikes to the Thunder Bowl area, adjacent to Kirkwood's permit boundary off the backside of the ridgeline behind Chair 6. The untapped terrain offers experienced skiers and riders a taste of the backcountry. Advanced skiers and riders can also take a Level I, II, or III Avalanche Certification Course to learn various aspects of snow science and snow safety, including skills such as slope evaluation, how to determine snow density and advanced rescue techniques. The popular Backcountry Awareness Courses, an introductory lesson into safety in unpatrolled terrain, will be offered twice monthly. Seasoned Kirkwood ski patrollers and certified guides lead all programs, which include necessary backcountry specific equipment, including avalanche beacon, probe and shovel.

Skiers and riders who crave it steep and fast will be ecstatic with Kirkwood's expanded High Angle Grooming program. Already the leader of groomed black and double black diamond runs on Tahoe's South Shore, Kirkwood will increase its regularly groomed high angle terrain to include runs that were previously only groomed sporadically during the season.
Powder Cat Skiing, Powder Cat Skiing, Powder Cat Skiing, Powder Cat Skiing

Tours are available on weekends and holidays, 9AM or Noon, weather permitting. Pro patrollers will accompany group on four runs of fresh turns; strong intermediate to expert skill level needed. Limited to five people per tour, the cost is $100/person for four runs. Groups of five can reserve any day, seven days a week. Tours fill up quickly, so guests are encouraged to book far in advance.
For more details or information please call the Expedition Kirkwood Headquarters at 209-258-7360 or email us at expedition@kirkwood.com.

Crystal Mountain will open this Friday, November 4th, 2005. On Friday the Chinook Express, Rainier Express and Green Valley lifts will be open giving acess to the Green Valley area and Lucky Shot. Tickets on Friday are $40 for adults and $35 for youth. Starting Saturday the Forest Queen and Discovery lifts will also be open. Tickets this weekend are $45 for adults and $40 for youth. Lifts will run daily from 9am-4pm.
There is already two feet on the upper mountain and there's another two to three feet expected before the weekend. The mountain is covered and we're busy getting the everything ready for you
If you need to pick up your Season Pass or have your photo taken please allow for some extra time when getting here. Guest Services will open at 8am.
Photo:Crystal Cam    Crystal Mountain Wa

Huang Shan, P.R.C.
As northern China shivered its way through the coldest October since Liberation in 1949, at least some people were rejoicing. While farmers raced to batten down the hatches for the long winter ahead, those wanting to cash in on China's winter sports industry joined the rush, preparing for an extra-long season on the slopes.

China's oldest and most famous ski resort, Yabuli, open a clear month ahead of schedule. Beijing's newest suburban resort - Nanshan Ski Village Shanghai got its first taste of ski action with the hyped opening of China's biggest indoor slope, the Dashun Hokkaido Skiing Center in October.

Snow and mountains are no problem for China (there are plenty of both, particularly in the west and northeast), but winter sports remain a minority pastime largely because the areas most suitable for skiing are also the poorest. Insufficient road and rail networks to the mountains and a lack of recreational facilities for skiers come far down a list of needs for China's.

Last winter, the China Ski Federation reported 500,000 ski visits, although most associated with the resorts believe that figure is on the conservative side, believing the true number to be closer to one million. Figures associated with skiing are all projections of estimates, but the math is still compelling: winter sports attendances are projected to reach around five million.
http://www.cityweekend.com ( Bejing -P.R.C )
Photo Credit: Davids art open stock

Snow Report updated: Jackson Hole Wy, Timberline Or, reports new snow
Crystal Wa to open this weekend, Loveland Co open

Crystal Mountain, WA-
It’s official, Crystal Mountain will open on Friday, November 4th, 2005. The Chinook Express, Rainier Express & Green Valley lifts will run daily from 9am-4pm. For now Crystal advises that beginners wait until more terrain becomes available. Food services and ski/snowboard rentals will be available. The Ski & Snowboard school will remain closed until the lower area opens. Lift tickets will be reduced due to limited operations but those rates have not yet been set.
There’s already 28” at the top of the mountain and 14” at the base. A fleet of Snowcats are currently working to pack down the snow creating a solid base for the rest of the season. The forecast shows more snow for the rest of the week and into the weekend. Crystal plans to open more lifts and terrain as soon the snow permits. This is the earliest opening in 28 years, and ski area employees couldn’t be more excited! ***
Portland Ski Fever & Snowboard Show

This Years lineup includes Ski Reps with the latest gear, The Northwest's Largest Ski Swap, exciting entertainment, vacation ski resorts and nearly all of Portlands major winter sports retailers with endless opportunities to save up to 70% on Ski and Snowboard gear! Be sure to stop by the Crystal Mountain booth for updates and Crystal goodies! Location: Portland Expo Center, Exit 306B off I-5 Friday 1pm-10pm Saturday 10am-10pm Sunday 10am-6pm

The winner of the Pole position for this season,
ALYESKA ALASKA

BASE CONDITIONS Nov 2, 8:49 AM AKST Temp: 25ºF/-3ºC New Snow: snow making in progress
Reminder;
11th Anniversary Special
Alyeska Resort is proud to celebrate the 11th Anniversary of the Alyeska Prince Hotel. The celebratory hotel special will include a one night stay and an entry into the Grand Prize drawing for a Junior Suite Ski & Snowboard Package. The prize will be valid for the 05/06 ski season. The Anniversary rate is valid October 7- November 15, 2005. Price starts at $109 + tax and $10 per day resort fee. Room rates based on single or double occupancy, non-inclusive of tax and fees, moderate room. No purchase necessary to enter. Based on space availability. For reservations call 907-754-2111 to make reservations by phone.
Picture from Nicole / Todd, Alyeska Resort Mountain management Alyeska Resort -Alaska

A word of thanks.
The Patrollers, Instructors Lifty's are often the faces we come across on the hill most often. Before I forget, last year in the final days of the season, a Lift Maintainance supervisor ( ALLISTER) gave me a cat Lift to a roped-off part of the Mountain. There are a lot of Hidden heros in a season that allow the magic to happen.Occasionally I throw the parking crew Twinkies for a mid morning snack, The guy ( MIKE )that grooms under the lifts, RAMPS,Thanks, the lifty's that look the other way at 4:03 p.m., Thanks, The marketing staff that shoots the breeze with me on the phone THANKS. The A.C for leaving a little around the edge, Marina Bill for keeping the Mahogony Ridge in top shape for those lunch meetings.The H-1B visitors for their diversified roles in many departments. And E. Lomar P.for that first out-of-state trip and clinical offerings. Also Paul, Scott & Jeff and the other masters coaches on Mott's below Siberia for keeping me fired up between surgeries and letting me hit the gates and "slip", for the others.
- Finally all the Marketing Managers for their part in sharing the news to a global cooperative.

100 days to go
Quick Links
Torino 2006 Olympic Games

The two Olympic valleys, Val Chisone and Val di Susa EVENT VENUES
Sestriere Borgata ,"The Kandahar Banchetta" ( DH )slopes I will dive into the snowboarding events and venues next week
***
Snow is expected above 6500' Today around the Tahoe Basin
11/5: Cadillac Ball at Resort At Squaw Creek
11/5-6: November Truckee Ski Swap at the Truckee Community Center
11/5: 17th Annual Chocolate Fest located at the Chateau in Incline Village
11/25: The Back Country Gear Swap ( Truckee )
A great Tahoe Community Local Source Tahoe This Week

*** Swiss Info
Old time jazz
From November 4-6, at the Congress Centre in Biel, the 35th International Old Time Jazz Meeting will take place with local jazz bands Bowler Hats, Dixie on Air and the famous Swiss Dixie Stompers. Full programme at www.jazzmeeting.ch
Emotion
Until November 13, Lucerne's Art Museum puts on a special exhibition of works completed between 1905-2005 by artists including Hodler, Henning, Emmenegger and Vallotton. The paintings focus on landscapes, human bodies and emotions. www.kunstmuseumluzern.ch
Leftovers
Until November 13, the Kunsthaus Zurich presents a solo exhibition by the Bulgarian conceptual artist Nedko Solakov called "Leftovers" – a selection of his unsold pieces from the private galleries with which he works. The exhibition uses irony and humour to question contemporary art and its economic structures. www.kunsthaus.ch

Kitzbuhel news will be available here this season. Home to the premier FIS DH event, "The Hannenkam" Photo: Kitzbuhel Marketing Dept

Tahoe Biltmore
Great Rates $19 Room Rates now through November 30, 2005 Sunday through Thursday (Excluding November 24, 2005).
Incredible Weekend Rates! Stay in your choice of the Hotel or Cottage for any Friday or Saturday night in November for only $59 a night!! (Excluding November 25 & 26).

Please call (800)245-8667 to make your room reservation now! (Mention Code = EML 7)*
Tahoe Biltmore

Crystal Mountain, WA- Over the last two days Crystal has received 20” of snow in Green Valley. The trees are white and even more importantly the ground is covered with snow! It is currently snowing an inch an hour and there is no sign of it letting up anytime soon. This early snowfall has Crystal employees very exciting and talking about a possible early opening! We are watching the weather closely and will open as soon as the snow permits. No opening date has been set as of now. Two Snowcats were parked at the summit yesterday waiting for just enough snow to go to work. This morning they are busy packing down the snow, creating a solid base for all the new snow to fall on. Crystal Mountain

Photo / Coast Photo / Crystal
***


Whistler Blackcomb
Blackcomb Mountain to OPEN early November 5 & 6!
Fantastic news, skiers and riders. Blackcomb Mountain will open this weekend November 5-6 with plans to open for daily operations starting November 11. Storms moving through the Whistler region have brought 60 cm/24 in of snow to the mountains at the Rendezvous Lodge elevation located at 1,860m/6,102ft, and the forecast is calling for even more snow through the week! Whistler Blackcomb

Whistler Photo
***


Verbier
La Chaux Express:Revolutionary !
Téléverbier SA is pulling out all the stops with La Chaux Express. This new installation is the only one of its kind in the world to serve two sides of the same mountain and to have an intermediate station. News Letter

Verbier 2005 -20 events
17 – 18.12.05 24 Heures Freeride de Verbier
18 – 24.2.06 Verbier Ride
25 – 26.2.06 King of the Mountain
17 – 19.3.06 O’Neill Xtreme by Swatch
1.4.06 Carlsberg High Five
22 -25.4.06 XSpeedSki by Tag Heuer (pro)
27 – 29.4.06 Patrouille des Glaciers
29 – 30.4.06 XSpeedSki Pop KL
29 – 30.4.06 Ultime Session

And there is more at Verbier