August Newsletter (Click Here)
Piette’s Post
I’m starting with a review of some of the significant topics covered in the survey people filled out during the Spring Banquet, then I will move on to new information regarding our trip to Big White.
Survey Highlights:
Everyone that attended the Spring Banquet was provided an opportunity to share their opinions and ideas by filling out a survey. The response to this was very good. Thank you to everyone for helping the full Board to understand your preferences. I will briefly comment on several of the highlights, especially those related to skiing and other activities. Pia Heldt will share other survey results at a later date.
With respect to skiing, the preference for ski-in/ski-out lodging came through loud and clear by being the highest approval rating for any of the questions. It is also clear from the survey that people love going back to places they like. Sun Peaks and Telluride had the highest scores for favorite North American destinations. Aspen, especially Snowmass, Lake Tahoe and Vail were close behind in the rankings. Searchmont, Lutsen and Whitecap were identified as favorite locations in the Midwest.
We also had a question about the food that is offered for our banquets. Many people stated that they were okay with anything because the reason for attending is to see the people. I agree. Yet, 23 people favored a more upscale meal versus 6 people stating that they preferred we continue with the family style meals. We will work with The Woods to identify alternatives as we go forward.
Big White:
It is to your advantage to stay current with our planning process for Big White. You may sign up online starting August 28th, and send your check in no sooner than September 1. The reason for having an early signup is to take advantage of the favorable exchange rate. We will be posting significant information before the September newsletter comes out so that you will be ready for the signup. A signup date will be approved at the next Board meeting. The date will be quickly communicated to everyone via the web page (Gelandesprung.org) and the “Gelandesprung Ski Club” Facebook page.
The final price for the trip will be announced a few days prior to the signup date. Given that the exchange rate could change quickly, we will be more accurate with setting the correct price for the trip by waiting. To help you plan, we set the maximum price at $2,200 for the base package of all travel, skiing and lodging, etc. If the exchange rate does not change much between now and early September, we will be able to set a lower price. Please read the information carefully. You also need to verify that your passport will not expire before September 3, 2024. If it does, you will need to apply to renew your passport immediately and you will probably need to expedite the renewal process. There is more information in this newsletter.
Finally, Big White and Sun Peaks are in the Okanagan Valley. Check out the Post about the valley at https://www.ski.com/blog/7-reasons-we-love-the-okanagan-ski-resorts/ or at the Facebook page. You may also access the link at Gelandesprung.org by clicking on the “Trips” button.
Tom
