Friday's Bulletin
For February 23, 2008 (last day this season)
 What? Week 8 already? What a great year we have had my Ski School faithful, and what a sweet Saturday tomorrow is shaping up to be. Partly sunny with a chance of snow, will be quite a switch from the wet afternoon we had last Friday. The snow will be packed and firm, so wear your helmet, goggles or shades, and dress for the cold.  Speaking of helmets, goggles, clothes and such, I have a number of lost and found items that I have accumulated over the season, so see me on the ferry Saturday morning (and again in the afternoon), where I will have my lost and found bin. Find the things you’ve been missing.

2008 has been an outstanding ski school year, an amazingly fun adventure. This is largely due to the excellent attitude and mature behavior of you, our participants. We are a big group - 350 strong on our biggest days. I think we appear a little overwhelming at times, that is why it is so important and much appreciated when everybody in the program acts in a respectful and appropriate manner. Please remember that your actions reflect not only the ski school but also the school district, your family, and the community of young people at large. Let's make this last day an especially successful one. Have an excellent experience on the mountain but don't forget the common sense that keeps you in good stead on the bus and the ferry as well. Don't forget we are a school function, and all expectations that apply at school apply at ski school too.

So our last ski school day on the mountain will include our end of the year hot dog feed and goodie raffle. This will all commence right after your lessons, so bring your instructor to the opposite side of the ski school building (facing the rope tow), chow down, and if you’ve been to lessons you are entered to win some cool prizes.

Tomorrow will be a sweet conclusion to our epic season, but remember that all of you with a seasons pass have access to the mountain until its scheduled closing, April 13 … we hope to see you riding in the weeks to come.  For tomorrow, remember to ride safe and stay with your buddy. Take in the grandeur, fill your lungs with the sweet mountain air, help each other out, and smile frequently, cause it’s all good. See you in the morning ~ David Keller, the mountain guy

(Posted Thur. Feb. 14, 4:00 PM)
Is there such a thing as too much snow? No my fall-line friends, we just need to keep it on the mountain and off the roads. Tomorrow, Friday, is our first make-up ski school trip, and spring riding conditions are in the forecast. Please pay close attention to the following details.

• First, because it is a commuter day, we need to leave the respective school parking lots punctually at 5:40, so plan on being a bit early Friday morning.
• Secondly, the ferry system has been able to guarantee only 4 busses on each ferry route, so it is possible that in the morning 4 busses will have to wait to load the 7:05 boat. In the evening with the 3 day weekend upon us, we will in all likelihood end up with 4 busses on the 6:35 pm boat, and 4 busses on the 7:20 sailing. If your student rides busses 1 through 4 (all busses in the high school lot, and the first in line in the junior high lot), please plan to pick them up at the end of ski school right around 8pm. Riders on those busses will be given an extra 30 minutes on the mountain. Students on busses 5 through 8 should return at 7:30 the regular time.
• So ski-schoolers, it is very important that you return to your busses on time tomorrow. Riders of busses 5 through 8, please be at your bus no later than 3:30, as we need these busses to depart at 3:45. Riders of buses 1 through 4 should be at their busses no later than 4:00 for a 4:15 departure. 

Remember that Friday is a non-lesson day. The mountain crowds should be light allowing you and your riding crew to get lots of vertical, but please remember our ski school mantra; ride within your abilities and ride with your crew. Also remember that CK Ski School is a CK School District activity and all rules and responsibilities apply.

Our final make-up Saturday is planned for February 23. It will be your last lesson day, and right after lessons end we will do our annual hot dog lunch and goodies raffle for those of you who have attended lessons faithfully … don’t miss it.

See you (a little early) in the AM.

(posted Feb.8, 4:00PM)
Hey Ski School Shredders,

I’m sure, like me, your itching to get up to the pass, but the word has just come down that Stevens Pass will be closed tomorrow due to weather conditions (see note from the Stevens Pass website below). So with no lifts running, we have no choice but to cancel ski school once again.

At this point our plan will be to go on Friday, February 15 for a free-ski day, and then end the year on Saturday February 23 with our last day of lessons … but as we have seen with the last two Saturdays … stay tuned.

~ MR. Keller ~ The Mountain Guy stuck at sea level

SPECIAL ALERT

The WSDOT has closed US Highway 2 for the remainder of today, Friday February 8th due to an avalanche.  At this time with the expected and continuing avalanche conditions an estimated opening date and time has not been determined.  As well, Stevens will be closed tomorrow, Saturday, February 9th. Stay tuned to the website for updates.

Ski School is CANCELLED for this Saturday, Feb 2, 2008

It’s hard to imagine canceling ski school for too much snow, but with I-90 still closed, and Stevens Pass closing intermittently due to heavy traffic and extreme avalanche danger, we have decided to cancel ski school for this Saturday. 

Many factors have weighed into our decision, the unprecedented recent snow fall (5’3” in the last 7 days) and the avalanche and tree well dangers associated with that rapid snow accumulation. The likelihood of snow here in Kitsap County this evening and into the morning, and the potential hazardous driving conditions. And finally, as mentioned, the mountain pass closures and traffic problems related to those closures.

Ultimately the well being of our participants comes first, and even though we will be longing for the fresh turns missed, we want to make sure we end the year safely.

This cancellation means that we will now have ski school on Saturday February 9^th with lessons, and our final trip of the year (lunch and raffle) will most likely be February 16, however because February 15 is a non-school day, we may research the possibility of going to Stevens on that Friday. Please email your feedback on this idea.

Thanks for your understanding,

Mr. Keller ~ The Ski School Guy

(posted Jan. 25)
Hello again my mountain lovin’ brotha’s and sista’s. This is Ski School Saturday number 6, and I hope the routines are now embedded into your brain. Once again this is a lesson Saturday, so plan to be at the lesson site at 9:50. Just for fun, let me remind you once again that this is a school district function and all rules apply. For instance, it would be inappropriate for you to take items that do not belong to you, or use any kind of vulgar language, or give a classmate a wet willy because you thought it would amuse your friends. These behaviors are not acceptable on your bus or the mountain either. So I count on all of you to use your best judgment and enjoy your Saturdays, but do so appropriately.  If you have any questions about rules and expectations, you can review the designated pages on our website.

Parents, it looks like the low-land snow event is going to hold off for tomorrow morning, but if you wake up to major snow covering the ground, please check the web-site for possible cancellation. Please drive carefully on the icy morning roads.

SKI SCHOOL YEARBOOK (and website) PHOTOS TOMORROW. TOP OF SKYLINE EXPRESS 2:15 UNTIL 2:50. We want to capture a moment of your mountain experience to be shared in your school's yearbook. To that end, Mr. Rosendale and/or Mr. Samson will be taking group pictures at the top of the Skyline Express chair. Here is the schedule for schools:

Ridgetop & Fairview show up at 2:15; Klahowya & Oly be there at 2:30, CKJH & CKHS your time is 2:35; All other school groups should be there no later than 2:45. Finally we hope to take a big Group Shot for all ski school participants at 2:50. Show up with your school crew and smile for the camera.

I want everyone to know that we always emphasize safety along with fun. We have had a number of emails praising the use of helmets. Parents and participants have shared stories about how helmets keep students on the mountain and able to ride after some gnarly wipeouts. On firm snow days, like tomorrow will be, we encourage you to wear a helmet and stay on the groomers. There’s plenty of fun to be had on the mountain’s designated runs. You snowriders always need to remember to ride smart and safe and stay with a buddy.

So far you all have shown your mountain savvy, with almost all of you attending lessons, and staying injury free. Your experience and good judgment continues to make our ski school a smooth operation ~ thank you.

This Saturday, with the forecast of little new snow and cold temps, we want you all back to the bus at 3:45 (unless otherwise announced). Please be aware of the time when on the mountain. Be punctual for lessons and returning to the bus. I plan on seeing you all tomorrow morning. Get a good night sleep and don't forget your Seasons Pass, your helmet, or your goggles.

Let the fun continue ~ Mr. Keller

(Posted Jan 18) Hello my Mountain People,

Week 5 of CK Ski School looks like it will be once again a snow filled fun day. Remember that this is the first non-lesson Saturday. This is a timely opportunity for participants to practice their new-found skills. Snowriders, be sure to ride with a buddy or in a group, and stay on familiar terrain. Save your explorations into new areas for next weekend when you can check with your instructor to see what you are ready for. Under no circumstances should CK Ski School participants venture outside of the Stevens Pass boundary area.

Once again I want to remind all of you with seasons passes to have your pass ready to go, in your parka or snow pants, or around your neck – remember Stevens Pass levies a $50 charge for replacing lost passes. 

Students buying lift tickets should purchase them on the ferry from Mrs. Anderson at the front end of the boat. Checks must be made out to Stevens Pass. Tickets for 13 years and older are $42.00, and for 12 and under $27.00. Those with cash must have exact change.

Again make sure to mark all your belongings. We continue to have a few lost and found issues each week. If you find something, please return it to the owner, just as you would want your lost item returned to you. Continue to be mindful of where your equipment is.

Please return to the busses at the designated time. Unless otherwise stated, this will be 3:45. With the road conditions, it is imperative that we leave the mountain close to 4:00 in order to make the 6:30 ferry. Please be on time and let the chaperones know when you return to the bus.

Once again parents, please drive carefully when picking up your snowrider. The parking lots may be slippery, and there will be many parents trying to get their students and get home. With a little patience all will go well. And finally, please check the attendance link on the web site for accuracy, and to make sure your student is taking advantage of their lessons.

The snow conditions at Stevens just keep getting better and better. We have a 104” base with 38" in the last seven days.  See you all tomorrow, and don’t forget to thank your bus driver and chaperones for the hard work they do in getting us to our Saturday fun.  Remember, CK ski school is a district function and all rules apply. Be sure to dress warm, ride safe, and use the buddy system.

Mr. Keller ~ The Mountain Guy

(Posted Jan. 11) Can you feel the Mountain Love my ski school friends? The snow keeps falling, and CK Ski School is gliding along like a carved turn in the fresh snow. I want to thank all of you for doing your part, and making this season run so smoothly. Tomorrow is Saturday number 4, and once again we’re looking at 2 to 3 feet of freshies with a snowy winter day for our journey. Pack your gloves and goggles and dress warm for the fun. Let me remind you of a few important details for this week.

• First a safety issue. Mr. Samson and I know that historically 90% of the injuries to our students occur in the last hour of the day --often on the last run. As you experienced riders know, the end of the day is not the time to look for a big challenge. Plan to spend the last hour or so of the day enjoying some cruiser runs and winding down your day so you remain injury free for the weeks to come. And, please stay on the front side of the mountain after 2pm.
• Your Seasons Pass ~ if you have one, make sure that it is with you on Saturday and tied down tight. Go right now, find it and pack it where it won’t get left behind ….. did you find it? Is it tied down tight? ….O.K. now that you’ve taken care of that, read on.
• Our blessing of snow comes with the reminder to be safe up on the mountain and follow the guidelines of the resort. If you like to ski or ride off the groomers, check out the Tree Well & Deep Snow Safety Info brochures your chaperones have on the bus. Theses brochures, provide by the Stevens Pass Ski Patrol, have some great safety tips for riding the glades and tree stashes within the ski area.  All ski school participants must stay in bounds, respect closed areas, be aware of tree wells, and don’t forget our favorite mantra…always ski/ride with a buddy.

Pay attention to our departure time when we arrive at the mountain tomorrow. Road conditions are tricky to predict with the snowfall and the possibility of busses needing to chain up, however thanks to your promptness the past 3 trips, we are planning a 3:45 departure to give you some extra minutes on the mountain.  There is one other potential issue for those of you loading and unloading in the high school parking lot. This weekend is the “Matman” wrestling tournament at CKHS, so expect some congestion especially when we return to Silverdale.

DON’T FORGET CK SKI SCHOOL IS A CENTRAL KISTAP SCHOOL DISTRICT FUNCTION AND ALL SCHOOL RULES AND CONSEQUENCES APPLY.
See you in the morning ~ Mr. Keller, the Ski School Guy

(Posted Jan 5)

Happy New Year my mountain-ridin' crew, I hope you all had a fantastic winter break, and are rested and ready to ride! The snow just keeps on falling on our winter playground, and tomorrow will bring some windy conditions as well. Please check the web site before bedtime tonight, and again in the morning for potential ski school changes. In addition, parents please know that we will be checking pass conditions before we leave the parking lot tomorrow morning to be sure that the Stevens Pass highway and ski resort are open. Students, remember that this large and rapid accumulation can make for unstable snow pack with high avalanche danger and hazardous tree wells. The glades and trees and trails off the Chief chair seem to be a place new riders like to venture. This is not a safe environment, and we discourage participants from going into “chief trails”. Remember to always stay within the boundaries of the ski area and always ride with a buddy. Keep your last runs on the front side and close to the base area.  It is cool to be safe. Here is a list of important reminders:

Parents, there is a new feature on your participants seasons pass this year that allows you to load money onto that pass for lunch, gear, or whatever your student might need on the mountain. There are a couple ways this can be done: over the phone 206-812-4510 ext 4350 or if you are on the mountain at Guest Relations in Granite Peaks Lodge.

A few of you have made bus changes and/or lesson adjustments. The changes will be posted on our website by Friday 5:00 PM. Be sure you check the Participant List Friday evening.

Once again, PLEASE mark all of your equipment and belongings. With over 350 participants it is easy to get things mixed up. You are ultimately responsible for taking care of your own gear, and we can't be very effective in helping you relocate lost items if they aren't labeled. Pay attention to where you store your gear on the mountain. Again, CK Ski School is not responsible for misplaced, lost, or stolen items.

PLEASE watch the time while on the mountain. Lessons are at 10:00 sharp. Get to your lessons at least 10 minutes early so your class can beat the crowds to the chairs and get on the mountain quickly. Be especially mindful of returning to the busses at the 3:30 unless otherwise announced. Make your last run a wind-down run. Don’t go anywhere or do anything that will make you late.

Remember that ski school monitors your where-abouts from the time we leave the parking lot until the time we return that evening. If you begin the day with us, you (ski school participants) must stay with us and follow the established guidelines. We must have a face to face contact with a parent and/or a note from parents to allow any student to take alternate transportation to or from the mountain.

Parents, busses will return at 7:30 to the parking lots, and your students will be dismissed when their busses are cleaned up. Thank you all for promptly picking up your students the first two weeks.

DON’T FORGET CK SKI SCHOOL IS A CENTRAL KISTAP SCHOOL DISTRICT FUNCTION AND ALL SCHOOL RULES AND CONSEQUENCES APPLY.

Tomorrow will be a spare-glove-goggle-packin day. Dress smart, stay warm, ski or ride with a buddy, and I’ll see you on the slopes! ~ Mr. Keller, Ski School Director

Hello ski school family. Happy Holidays. If you are taking an opportunity to enjoy the mountains over this winter break, I bet you are happy indeed. Mother Nature has provided us with a steady visit of fresh snow just about every day this late December. Myself and the other ski-school directors (Mr. Samson & Mr. Rosendale) will be spending the next 3 days at Stevens Pass skiing these freshies. And, just as a reminder, we will be skiing this weekend as regular mountain visitors - not attached to ski school. This is to say, NO SKI SCHOOL THIS WEEKEND. We don't start back up (3rd Session) until after we return to school. Have a Happy New Year. See you Saturday, January 5th. ~Mr. Keller

(posted 12/14 5:00 PM) Check, Check, Check...Test, Test, Test, Testing 1,2,3...Okay, I think all systems are go. Yeah Baby! Are you ready to ride The Pass my ski-school people! Let the fun begin. With a 30”base, the snow cover is on the low side, but Stevens Pass has been working hard to make sure the groomers have adequate coverage, and there is heavy snow predicted for tonight and tomorrow. However, please make sure you ride on the established runs, and save your equipment for the snow that is to come. With the weather predicted, dress warm, and don’t forget hat, gloves, and goggles.
Before I list the important updates, I want to remind everyone to check the webpage for bus assignments this evening. I know there are still a few of you who would like to switch busses, but at this point please load on the bus that you are listed on. Don't make changes on your own.

First, bus locations for the season will be as follows: BUSSES 4 THROUGH 8 LOAD AT CK JUNIOR HIGH and BUSSES 1 THROUGH 3 LOAD AT THE SENIOR PARKING LOT LOCATED BETWEEN THE HIGH SCHOOL AND THE ROUND-A-BOUT ON ANDERSON HILL RD. Please be thoughtful and courteous as your park. On this first Saturday, I suggest you be ready to load by 5:15 AM. The busses will leave the parking lots at 5:45 AM.

Second, if you do not already have your seasons pass, it will be handed out in the bus on the way up to the mountain, or for a very few of you on the mountain. For those who did not purchase seasons passes, you will buy your tickets on the ferry at the forward end. This will be very simple and only take a few minutes. You must pay with check made payable to Stevens Pass, or have exact change. Regular tickets are $42.00, and tickets for students 12 and under are $27.00.

Third, mark all your gear, and make sure that your gear, especially your board bag is unique and easily identifiable. You are ultimately the person responsible for your equipment. The chaperones and the snowboard truck drivers are there to help, but you must make sure your skis or board are loaded, unloaded and accounted for.

Now, just for fun, review the Saturday @the Mountain (even though I know you already know everything). Then, reread the Rules and Expectations page. You must be absolutely clear on your understanding that CK Ski School is a school-district event. Inappropriate behavior has consequences. Serious infractions involving alcohol, drugs, harassment, or theft have very serious consequences including expulsion from ski school and suspension from your home school or even arrest. Please, be the well-behaved kids I know you are.

On this first day, the ski patrol will greet each bus and give you a heads-up on conditions and safety issues. We would then like all lesson participants to head straight to lessons on the first day. Stevens Pass will use a new process to sort riders by ability, and this will take a few extra minutes. For first time participants, this will include a brief tour of the mountain so you know where important things like lockers, bathrooms, and food are. Remember to take any belongings you think you might need during the day with you. The busses are not necessarily secure. Store your valuables in a locker. The busses will not be accessible until 3:00.

All ski school participants must be back on the bus ready to go by 3:30. DON'T BE LATE!  The busses will return home about 7:30 ready for pick up. Parents please be punctual.

Parents, Tim Knapp, our emergency van driver wants you to have his cell phone number, (360)340-5642, in case of questions or concerns. Tim now has excellent reception at the mountain, so if needed, please call him.

See you in the morning. Remember to wear a helmet, play safe, and always ski or ride with a buddy.
~David Keller, the mountain guy

(posted December 6) Hello Ski School People, can you hear that distant humm? Listen and you just might hear the chair-lift engines firing up at Stevens Pass. The resort is now open, and we are now on the countdown status that proceeds Central Kitsap Ski School’s 34^th season. Here is a short checklist as we enter our final week.

þ     Plan on attending the Mandatory Meeting Thursday at CKJH.

þ     Informational part of the meeting begins at 7:00 for the whole group. However, remember that bus sign-ups go like this. Oldest students come first: 10^th, 11^th and 12^th grades can sign up at 6:15, 8^th and 9^th graders at 6:30, and finally 5^th, 6^th, and 7^th graders can sign up at 6:45. Students may sign up one friend with a note from that friend’s parents. Students will be directed to ride with their age group and their school group. A student must have permission from a ski school director to ride a bus that is meant for students two or more grade levels above or below. Students missing the meeting will be placed on the first available bus that closest meets their grade and school profile.

þ     Also, you can get the jump on acquiring your “Top Phlight Terrain Park” pass by downloading, printing, and completing this form, then bringing it with you to tomorrow’s meeting with the one-time $5 pass fee. After you watch a short instructional video (shown at 6:00 & 8:00), you will be good to go.  http://www.ridestevenspass.com/sites/ridestevenspass/upload/filemanager/Park-Pass-Release/Release-of-Liability-FINAL.pdf

A ski school saying used for just about all of our 34 years is “well begun is half done”. Be ready to go for tomorrow’s gathering, and the well begun is done - then its just getting our winter groove on.

Read the Inside Stevens Report.

Hello my Ski School Faithful, (posted Nov. 30, 2007)
Feel that winter air? Our fun is about to begin with just a few more snow flurries needed. We have 7 busses packed full with a waiting list to establish whether we take an 8^th bus. Our days of preparation are nearing an end, and our days of epoch riding are about to begin. On December 15^th the busses will rock and roll and we’ll be ready to ride.
BEFORE WE GET THERE, HERE ARE SOME IMPORTANT REMINDERS

 Mandatory Meeting, Thursday Dec. 6 in CKJH Old Gym Yes, the Mandatory Meeting is Thursday, and there will be lots going on, so please read the following carefully.

1. First if you are a rider of the rails or like playing in the pipe, listen up. Stevens Pass has a new Park Pass that you MUST have to enter the Terrain Park. If you are a Terrain Park veteran, you will want to attend one of the training sessions either before of after the Mandatory Meeting (6:00 pre, ~8:00 post). Your parents must sign the park pass form (if you’re under 18), and there’s a $5.00 fee.
2. Bus Sign Ups will also happen before the Mandatory Meeting begins. Oldest students come first: 10^th, 11^th and 12^th grades can sign up at 6:15, 8^th and 9^th graders at 6:30, and finally 5^th, 6^th, and 7^th graders can sign up at 6:45. Students may sign up one friend with a note from that friend’s parents. Students will be directed to ride with their age group and their school group. A student must have permission from a ski school director to ride a bus that is meant for students two or more grade levels above or below. Students missing the meeting will be placed on the first available bus that closest meets their grade and school profile.
3. By Monday, December 10, we will have downloaded all participant’s names onto the web site link: Participant List, so if you turned your registration in by November 30, you can check to make sure your student is in the program. Updated lesson placements will happen after our first Saturday at the mountain.

So remember there are 30 spaces left to fill that last bus. If you are waiting to sign up, DON’T! Or if you have friends that want to join our winter party, let them know that there is still room if they hurry. We will take ski school registrations up until our meeting on December 6^th. Only full busses can go, so we need to have a few more students to assure the 8^th bus.

I’m looking forward to seeing all of you on the 6^th. We have a set agenda that won’t go more than an hour, but we have important details to cover to assure everyone has a safe, rewarding, and fun experience on each ski school Saturday. Until then ~ Think Snow.
David Keller, Director, CK Ski School

(posted November 25)
Hey my ski school family, do you have your seat on the bus? We are in the last weeks of ski school sign ups, snow is beginning to cover our mountain playground, and while there will be a place for you if you get your paperwork in soon, the busses are filling up. In order to get your application processed in time for the first day of ski school we need your paperwork no later that Nov. 30. If you have a conflict or questions about that deadline, please send me an email (davidk@cksd.wednet.edu).

Applications are available at your school or on-line at www.ckskischool.com . Get them turned in so you can get your turns in. Stevens Pass is about 20 inches of snow away from opening (one good PNW mountain storm), so if you have turned you pass application in before November 15^th, and we get the storm we’re snow dancing for, you should have a pass ready to ride with.  Passes will be sent to me here at CKJH. If you need to pick yours up before our first day of ski school, email or call me (662-2343), and we will figure out the best way to get your pass to you.

For those of you who mailed your pass application to us after Nov. 15, we will be sending those forms up to Stevens Pass as they come in, and they should be ready by our first ski school day if not sooner.

Those of you who did not have a pass last year may need to provide a picture to Stevens. The easiest way to do this is take or find a digital picture of yourself and send it to me, once again, davidk@cksd.wednet.edu.  I will make sure it gets up to Stevens and they know that you are a part of the CK posse.

OK y’all, along with your holiday preparation, get those boards tuned up and ready for an epic snow season. Oh, and don’t forget the MANDATORY MEETING IS THURSDAY DEC. 6 CKJH 7:00 PM(posted November 2nd)
Come shop at the CK Ski School Ski/Board/Gear Swap.
Our swap will be held this year on November 10th at Central Kitsap Junior High, from 9am until 1pm in the Old Gym. It is the happening place to get registered for ski school, get questions answered, and get some sweet deals on gear and clothing. The Northern Wave and Kitsap Sports will be there with some trick deals, as well as many individuals selling and swapping gear that may work for you. There will be a $1.00 charge to browse, and a $5.00 charge to sell your gear (or you can leave your gear with CK Ski School personal for a 20% selling fee).  All proceeds will go to the CK Ski School scholarship fund. Experts with advice on gear, mountain needs, and ski school details will be on hand to answer your questions. It will also be a perfect opportunity to chat it up and get revved up for the upcoming season.

David Keller ~ Ski School Guy

(posted 10/29/07
Yes my Ski School Faithful, this years CK Ski School applications are now available in schools and at Kitsap Sports and Northern Wave.  For those of you still reading, before I get to the details of the up-coming season, let me fill you in on some important dates. Our third annual Ski/Snow Gear Swap will be Saturday, November 10, from 9am until 1:00pm in the CKJH old gym. Our First-Timers meeting, to outline the fun and details of ski school, will be Thursday, November 15, starting at 7pm, and finally the Mandatory meeting for all ski school participants is scheduled for Thursday, December 6, at 7pm. Both meeting events will take place at CKJH in the Old Gym.

Now for the details. This year’s season will work much like last years. Our courteous and competent CK bus drivers will get you to and from the mountain. The highly skilled Stevens Pass instructors will show you how to rock the piste on your board or skis. And mother nature will provide the freshies for our turning pleasure. One big bonus for families this year is that Stevens Pass is providing a 10% discount for having more than one student enrolled in their program!

A few more details/reminders to note:
1. While the Stevens Pass price increased slightly, remember that the lesson/lift package price includes an every day seasons pass, allowing our participants to ride from the day the mountain opens until the last day of operation. Students choosing to pay for lessons only and purchase individual lift tickets will pay $42.00 for those tickets (a significant discount from the ticket window prices at the mountain).
2. Once again, all lessons will run from 10am until 12:00 so that all CK participants can spend the afternoon on the mountain hanging with their friends no matter what their ability level.
3. Central Kitsap Ski School will use the Pacific Crest Lodge and all of its amenities as their morning meeting area. This facility includes a brown-bag eating area and features the Iron Goat Pizza Station, the Outer Limits Grill, and the Mountain X food service. This location will have a manned kiosk dedicated to helping our kids with their lessons and other questions about the mountain. Furthermore, this lodge houses the retail gear shop where participants have access to the latest in clothing and accessories

For more information about the upcoming season check our website www.ckskischool.com (site should be mostly updated) and look for newsletters and bulletins from the ski-school guy, Mr. David Keller  
(email him at davidk@cksd.wednet.edu )

Big Winter Storms Predicted - Big Winter Fun to Follow
(posted 9/26/2007)
Hello to my Ski School Family, those of you returning, and those just checking us out. It’s time to dial you up again with the new news for our 2007/2008 extravaganza. Once again CK Ski School will be your ticket to the mountains, Stevens Pass that is, and a great winter of riding.

Little has changed this year. Stevens Pass will once again offer excellent instruction to our participants, and while there has been a slight increase in fees, Stevens continues to offer our snow riders excellent deals on lessons and an every day Season’s Pass. On the transportation side of things, thanks to great cooperation by our CK transportation folks, we will be able to keep the bus ride price the same this year ($220.00) for our eight trips to Stevens Pass.

So get out your calendar because that brings us to dates. Our first big event will be the CK Ski Swap on Saturday, November 10th in the Central Kitsap Junior High’s Old Gym. We will open for business at 9am, and close up at 1pm. This is a great opportunity to get some green for the old gear you no longer are using, find some great bargains on gear you can use, get questions answered about and get signed up for Ski School.

Next up is the First Timers Meeting, on Thursday, November 15^th, once again at CKJH in the Old Gym, at 7pm in the evening. The focus of this meeting is to introduce newcomers and first time skiers/boarders to our sport, get you dialed in on what you will need to have a great time in the mountains, and make sure all your questions are answered. This will also be an opportunity to register for Ski School in person.

Finally our last pre-season meeting is the Mandatory Meeting on Thursday, December 6, yes in the CKJH Old Gym at 7pm. This meeting must be attended by all participants so we can go over the final details of the ski school, with a focus on mountain safety and citizenship.

Our planned dates for trips to Stevens Pass are (snow permitting) December 15 and 22, January 5, 12, 19, and 26, and February 2, and 9.

That’s the winter sports news for now. Look for Ski School flyers to show up in your mail box at the end of October, and to be in schools shortly after that. In addition as we get updates from Stevens Pass we will update the website with the information you need. Snow is in the forecast for this Friday … let’s get ready to ride.

 Mr. Keller ~ The Ski School Guy

Posted March 15, 2007 

Samson, Rosey, and I got to make a few fresh turns since our last day (yes we do ski without you), and in pondering our tracks we also thought about the tracks left behind by our collective group. Stevens Pass indeed felt the presence of CK Ski School. We left our mark this year, in numbers, in smiles, in sweet turns. And, we did it with style. 

 

Dude, I tell you, we had fun. Much of the credit for our experience goes to you - the participants. If you add up all our people and multiply that number by 8 weeks, we had almost three thousand (3000) snowrider trips to the mountain. I can count on my fingers the amount of mishaps we had, and none were serious. Nice job helping keep the program running smooth. 

 

Although, we have no lingering concerns about how this season played out this first year with Stevens Pass as our instruction team, we are dedicated to making each year as good or better than the last. With that in mind, we ask you take a few minutes (really it doesn't take that long) and complete our end-of-the-year survey. This might be our best way to get specific feedback on the various aspects of the ski school experience. It should be fun, not painful, and your input should make next year even better for you and your posse. To start the survey click on the web link below, or copy and paste the web address into your web browser.

I hope all of you pass holders are getting some additional riding time in on the mountain, and I will be looking for you when I’m up at the Pass. Please give me a shout if our paths cross. Until next year my friends, be safe, wear your helmet, and always ride with a buddy.

Sweet Turns ~ Mr. Keller

For further detail please check the signing up and/or passes/tickets pages on our website or email davidk@cksd.wednet.edu  or erics@cksd.wednet.edu

Last Turns Of The 06-07 Season for CK Ski School (posted 2/22/07),

Yes my ski school family,  I find myself a bit melancholy at the prospect of our last ski school outing this Saturday.  What a  exciting year it has been… time flies when your making runs. The great news for you pass holders is that winter is not done, and your passes keep you riding for free until Stevens Pass closes sometime in April. I hope to see many of you on the mountain in the weeks to come. Back to this Saturday, we want to send you all off in a big way, so read on for details.

 With lots of new snow predicted it should be a  superb day to let your instructor show you some of his/her secret haunts on the mountain. Yes, there will be lessons for all of you who signed up for lessons this year, and at the end of your lesson we will have lunch ready for all ski school riders (even you transportation only folk). Lunch will commence promptly at 12:00 on the north side of the Ski School building, and at 12:30, for all of you students who have faithfully attended your lessons, we will raffle off some great prizes provided by Kitsap Sports, Northern Wave, and Stevens Pass. Don’t miss the fun. 

I want to thank all of you  - participants and parents, for making this a fun year.  Overall, the behavior has been excellent on busses,  on the ferry, and  on the mountain .   In addition to having such nice kids, parents should give themselves a "reacharound" for promptly dropping off and picking up the kids and for driving friendly.   With all these accolades, don't forget we will maintain our high expectations on your good behavior right through this last day. Like I have said a gazillion times, this is a school function so continue to act as such.

Finally I want to thank Stevens Pass for hosting us this year. For providing excellent coaching/instruction, and bending over backwards to accommodate CK Ski School. We are looking forward to sweet snow riding at Stevens Pass for many years to come.

OK you snow lovers, pack your gear, be prepared for Mother Nature’s offerings, ride safe, and stick with your buddy.

 See you on Saturday morning ~ Mr. Keller, The Ski School Guy

Snow, Rain, Clouds, Sun??? (Posted Feb. 16, 2007)

Once again the weather checks tell me that we are in the “be prepared for anything” mode for this 2^nd to last ski school Saturday. All participants are included in this “no lessons” weekend, so don’t miss the bus and be ready to ride. Who know what Mother Nature will provide for us, but don’t forget to pack your helmet, gloves, goggles, and especially that Seasons Pass. Remember that Stevens Pass levies a $50 replacement fee for lost passes.

 

At the risk of nagging you all, I will once again ask you to please make sure all your gear is clearly marked with your name and contact information. While I have heard some talk of things being “stolen” at ski school or at Stevens Pass, so far all of the incidents I’m aware of have turned out to be things being misplaced or mistakenly taken, and happily returned in the end. Keep track of your gear when your on the mountain, and please use the ski/snowboard check if you want to make sure you gear is not taken while your not riding.

 

I must commend  you for your excellent behavior on the busses, ferry, and the mountain last week. Everyone made it back to the busses right on time last Saturday, and no one found their way to Ski Patrol, leaving me with nothing to fret about at the end of the day, that was sweet. Again I will remind you that CK Ski School is a CK School District event, and all of those in-school rules apply on Saturday.

 

Like this week, our final trip up to Stevens on February 24 is open to everyone. For you veterans of ski school, there is no “fun run” this year, just 8 fun rides up for everyone. This week is a “no lesson” week due to the Presidents’ Day Holiday, and next weekend will be a make-up day for our missed January 6^th trip. Our final day will include lessons for everyone in a lesson program, and our end of the year lunch and raffle event. Look for more details in next weeks bulletin. 

 

With 6 ski school trips under your belt, I know that many of you are venturing out onto new terrain and using your new-found skills to explore on the mountain. Please remember that even with the expertise you have acquired, it’s important to ride within your ability, and pay close attention to the mountain conditions when picking your runs. We want to see you finish the year strong and healthy and have you back with us next year. It’s cool to be safe.

 

OK ski schoolers, I need you to do some snow dances, get your gear in order, put your smiles on, and I’ll see you Saturday morning. Mr. Keller ~ The Ski School Dude

 

Ski School Is Lookin' For Some Cushion (posted Feb 9, 07)

…and we are oh so hopeful that mother nature will provide. Weather forecasts are calling for some new and much needed snow leading up to this Saturday, our 6^th ski school outing. Wear your helmet, wear your wrist guards, pack an extra pair of gloves and goggles if you got them. With 2 more dates after tomorrow on the ski school trip list, the end of ski school is in sight. Remember, all of you season pass holders, however, can ride until spring time closes the lifts at Stevens Pass.

 

Here is a re-cap of our final three trips. This weekend will be a lesson weekend for all participants signed up for lessons. February 17 will be a free ride/ski day for everyone, and February 24, our last outing, will be a make-up lesson day, and lunch/raffle for all of our lesson participants with excellent attendance. More details will follow for our last trip shindig, but with some great prizes being delivered to me by Kitsap Sports and Northern Wave, and the support of Stevens Pass, you won’t want to miss it, or your last two lessons that keep you on the invite list.

 

OK, I know you’ve all got your ski school routines dialed in, but just for fun check the Saturday @ the Mountain link on the web site. Go through the check list and read the reminders below. Two problems that continue to crop up are forgotten seasons passes and misplaced unmarked gear… don’t let that happen to you.

 

Please remember that CK Ski School is a school function and that all of the rules and regulations you follow in regular school apply to ski school. This starts on the bus in the morning, continues on the ferry, on the mountain, and all the way back home to Silverdale. Any violations of school rules during any part of our day will result not only in ski school discipline and possible legal action, but in school discipline as well. If you have any questions please read the Rules and Expectations section on our web page.

 

I’m predicting some sweet riding this weekend, so get amped up for another ski school run. Be nice to your chaperone and bus driver. Remember to ride safe and stay with your buddy. Help each other out, smile often, and say hello to an old person like me even if you don’t know them.

 

See you in the AM ~ Mr. Keller

 

Saturday, February 3 ~The space between

 This is the title of one of my favorite Dave Mathews tunes. That seems to be where we are with this weather pattern. What I can make from all my weather checks is that the day may start out a little like last Saturday, but it could turn to snow or rain as the day progresses ~ once again, be prepared. With no new snow, conditions will be firm. Helmets, and wrist guards for you boarders, are highly recommended. It will be a great day to keep your skis/board on the snow, and make sure you keep your speed under control. Be safe, there will be more freshies in the future.

It is also where we are at on our ski school calendar - half way there with 3 more ski school adventures after Saturday. So far so good. You are all doing most excellent. I have had very few problems, and what complications I have dealt with are softened by the many smiles and positive comments from participants and parents. Under no circumstance should you forget this is a school district event and good behavior and cooperation are of utmost importance.

On that note I will mention one concern from last Saturday. When the busses from the high school lot tried to get back up to the bus barn there were some aggressive and inappropriate comments made to our drivers. While I realize that everyone is in a hurry to get home, please remember that it is our bus drivers that make CK Ski School work. They spend long days making sure your children get up to, and down from the mountain safely. Please be courteous and give them the right of way as they try to return their busses, and finish a long work day. 

We seem to have most of our Saturday routines dialed in. Tonight, however, check to see that your Seasons Pass is included with your gear and that the knot is tied doubly-tight so you don't lose it.

Lessons are still of primary importance in developing your skills, making new friends, and learning about safety. Be at your lesson at 9:50, and remember your instructor can help you enjoy the full mountain experience. Also making your lesson keeps you in the running for our prize drawing on the last Saturday.

Here are the perennial reminders:

Once again, label all your belongings and take care of your gear. Check with chaperones if you have misplaced items. Always ski or ride with a buddy, and be sure to check the clock to make all your scheduled rendezvous. Get to lessons 10 minutes early. With predicted clear roads, we are asking you to be at the busses ready to load no later than 3:45 this week, unless otherwise announced in the morning. Your last run (s) of the day must not delay your timely return to the bus.

See you in the morning. ~Mr. Keller

 

Greetings to my ski school family,

What a difference a week makes. We’re looking at potential sunshine and fun fast conditions for this upcoming weekend. Don’t forget our ski scout motto however, “be prepared.” So, have your sunglasses handy, but don’t forget to have goggles and warm layers at the ready. Last weekend was the best, with soft snow and soft landings. You all were showing your skills nicely, and none of our snowriders made a trip to ski patrol. Well done! With no new snow since our last visit, the mountain will be packed and firm, so wear your helmet. Wrist guards are a good idea too, for you boarders. We will all have fun cruisin’ the groomers and riding in control. Remember it’s cool to be safe.

Lessons are on again for this weekend. We have worked hard to update our website and make sure that we have accurate instructor and class information. We made many changes with information from Stevens Pass, so please check this evening and make sure you have your instructors name and your class level memorized. If you need or want to change lesson level, show up at the lesson area early, and check with the Stevens Pass ski school crew. Once again this week the CK Ski School banner will be in the lesson area to the right of the magic carpet, and there will be signs designating Level 1 through Level 6. This corresponds to lesson levels 101 through 601. Remember to get to the lesson area at 9:50 to give time to get with your class and get out on the mountain by 10:00.

Last week we had a few misplaced board bags and one snow board. Please check with Mr. Samson or myself via email this evening, or in the parking lot in the morning if you are missing gear, and as you are getting ready this evening make sure the gear you have is yours. If you loose or misplace something, we can almost always get it back if it is properly labeled with name and phone number. When you unload your bus in the morning and take your board or skis out of your bag, it is your responsibility to put your board/ski bag in the bus storage under the bus. Do not leave it laying on the snow out in the parking lot.

This weekend brings us to the half-way point of our ski-school season. Amazingly, we will be finished at the end of February. For all you season pass holders, you will have virtually two more months of unlimited access to the mountain, as Stevens Pass does not close until the middle of April. Just for fun, why don't you review the Rules and Expectations and the Saturday at the Mountain links. Remember CK Ski School is a Central Kitsap function and all rules and regulations apply. Okay then.  See you in the morning. Oh, and always be safety conscious and ride with a buddy.
~ Mr. Keller, ski school guy.

 

Ski School Week 3

Ten inches of freshies today with snow showers continuing through Saturday … now there’s a weather forecast I can get behind. No high winds forecast, no single digit temps, just sweet fresh snow. But of course, as we are all learning this year, mountain riders must come prepared for whatever Mother Nature will provide. So make sure you pack goggles and gloves, dress warm, and don’t forget your helmet.

Our third trip to the mountain this Saturday means back to lessons for everyone enrolled. Getting to lessons has been a challenge for some of our participants, so if you are not sure where to go or who your instructor is, check the participant list on the web site, and make sure that you connect with your chaperone to get where you need to be. In addition, we are going to move our CK Ski School Sign down to the ski school area (below the Daisy chair) and have signs out to direct you to  your lesson level. We want all students who have paid for lessons to be in their lesson tomorrow. Remember lessons leave at 10:00 am, so be there no later than 9:50 to get a jump on the lift lines with your class.

For you season pass holders, make sure you have your pass secured with your snow gear, packed securely in your parka or pants, and ready to use for tomorrow. Remember Stevens Pass will give you one lift ticket per season if you forget your pass, and after that you must pay for your ticket and/or pay a $50 charge to get your pass renewed.

If you are buying a daily lift ticket on the ferry, please take care of that right away when you get off your bus in the morning. Once again Ms. Sontag will be at the front end of the boat selling tickets, and the price is $37 for students 13 and older, and $26 for students 12 and under. Checks should be made out to Stevens Pass, and if you have cash, please have exact change.

Pay attention to our departure time when we arrive at the mountain tomorrow. Road conditions are tricky to predict with the snowfall, and while I expect a 3:45 departure again (that means be at your bus at 3:30), that may get changed.  Our blessing of snow comes with the reminder to be safe up on the mountain and follow the guidelines of the resort. Stay in bounds, respect closed areas, be aware of tree wells, and don’t forget our favorite mantra…always ski/ride with a buddy.

AND ONCE AGAIN, CK SKI SCHOOL IS A CENTRAL KISTAP SCHOOL DISTRICT FUNCTION AND ALL SCHOOL RULES AND CONSEQUENCES APPLY.

See you in the morning ~ Mr. Keller, the Ski School Guy

 

 

 

Hello my Mountain People,

We are determined to get our turns in tomorrow at a COLD, but beautiful Stevens Pass. Parents, again please leave plenty of time to get to the busses in the morning, as the local roads will be a bit icy. Skiers and boarders, make sure to dress warm, helmets/extra gloves/face protection, and plan on taking hot chocolate breaks to avoid frostbite. As I write the email it is 5 degrees at Stevens Pass.

Reminder number one for all of you with seasons passes is to have your pass ready to go, in your parka or snow pants, or around your neck – remember Stevens Pass levies a $50 charge for replacing lost passes.  Participants that have not receive their pass yet will pick them up from your chaperone on your bus.

Students buying lift tickets should purchase them on the ferry from Mrs. Sontag at the front end of the boat. Checks must be made out to Stevens Pass. Tickets for 13 years and older are $37.00, and for 12 and under $26.00. Those with cash must have exact change.

Once again for all but our beginning snowriders this is a non-lesson day to go out and practice your skills. Make sure you are riding with a buddy, and stay on the runs you are familiar with. Save your explorations into new areas for next weekend when you can check with your instructor to see what you are ready for. Under no circumstances are CK Ski School participants allowed to go outside of the Stevens Pass boundary area.

For all of our ski and snowboard 101 and 201 students, Mountain Hosts are going to meet you at the busses upon arrival to take you up to your instructors for you lessons.

Again make sure to mark all your belongings. We had very few lost and found issues this past week. If you find something, please return it to the owner, just as you would want your lost item returned to you. Continue to be mindful of where your equipment is.

Please return to the busses at the designated time. Unless otherwise stated, this will be 3:30. With the road conditions, it is imperative that we leave the mountain by 4:00 in order to make the 6:30 ferry. Please be on time and let the chaperones know when you return to the bus.

Lastly, parents, please drive carefully when picking up your snowrider. The parking lots may be slippery, and there will be many parents trying to get their students and get home. With a little patience all will go well.

The snow conditions at Stevens just keep getting better and better. 54" in the last seven days.  See you all tomorrow. Don't forget ski school is a district function and all rules apply. Be sure to dress warm, ride safe, and use the buddy system.

Mr. Keller ~ The Mountain Guy

(posted Jan. 11, 2007)

 There we were, all dressed up and no place to go, wanting snow, stuck in Monroe. I hope that all of you were able to make the best out of the rest of your weekend and have saved that mountain energy for this Saturday. Here at ski school central, we have been talking to Stevens Pass about this Saturday, and a make-up date for last Saturday. Here is how it’s looking.

 

While this coming weekend was scheduled with Stevens Pass as a no lesson “homework day”, we realize that many of you new riders still need some instruction before we turn you loose. Stevens Pass has bent over backwards to accommodate us on this request, so for all of you 101 and 201 ski and snowboard students, you will have lessons this Saturday, at the same time, 10:00 am.. For 301 students and above, your lessons will be made up at a later date, and you will have a free ride day this weekend. Remember to stick to the runs you are familiar with, and leave new explorations for your next lesson day, and your instructors guidance.

 

As for our make-up date, we will make up our aborted trip from last Saturday on February 24, so mark it on your calendar. This will be our final trip to the mountain, and we plan to make it a party, with lunch provided, and some big prize’s being raffled off for those of you who attend all your lessons. Don’t miss it.
 

Finally, once again the weather seems to be keeping us on our toes. We will send out a ski school update tomorrow regarding conditions on the mountain and other important safety issues, however with our local weather, please leave yourself plenty of  time to get to the busses on Saturday morning, and be aware of the slick roads, especially those side streets.

Thanks for your patience with an unusual start to our Ski School season.

David Keller ~ The Ski School Guy

(posted Jan. 4, 07)

Happy New Year my Snowridin' Brothers and Sisters, I hope you all had a fantastic winter break, and are rested and ready to ride. Over 2 feet of new snow has fallen since our last outing, with another foot or more expected before Saturday. Great stuff for all-mountain riders, and soft landings for beginners. However, this large and rapid accumulation can make for unstable snow pack and dangerous tree wells.  Remember to always stay within the boundaries of the ski area and always ride with a buddy. It is cool to be safe. Here is a list of important reminders:

A few of you have made bus changes and/or lesson adjustments. The changes will be posted on our website by Friday 5:00 PM. Be sure you check the Participant List Friday evening.

Those of you who purchased Seasons Passes should either have your pass in your possession, or you will pick it up on Saturday morning at the mountain. Once again make sure you find a way to securely fasten your pass to your jacket or pants, and do not forget to have it with you on Saturday morning.

For those of you who purchase lift tickets, we will be selling you your ticket on the Ferry starting this Saturday. Go to the front of the ferry and find Mrs. Sontag. Please have a check made out to Stevens Pass for $37.00 if you are 13 or older, or $26.00 if you are 12 or under, or EXACT change if you must use cash. If you need help finding Mrs. Sontag just ask any chaperone.

Once again,  PLEASE mark all of your equipment and belongings. With over 300 participants it is easy to get things mixed up. You are ultimately responsible for taking care of your own gear, and we can't be very effective in helping you relocate lost items if they aren't labeled. Pay attention to where you store your gear on the mountain. Again, we can’t be responsible for misplaced,