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1997 Ski Trip 

Breckenridge, Colorado

April 6-9, 1997

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Jim Tilley's After Action Report

The first annual Class of '58 ski trip is now history. That first sentence carries two important messages: the group unanimously agreed that this should be an annual event, and since this is an activity that applies to a relatively small segment of the class, it should not be classified as a mini, but rather a ski trip. A subtle difference perhaps, but important.

The trip was an unqualified success. Thirty two classmates and wives, and fifteeen children, family and friends, enjoyed great skiing conditions, food, weather, and camaraderie. We expected spring conditions and most of us were

not prepared for true winter conditions, but the quality of the snow and bright sunny days more than made up for the cold, and blustery winds at the top of the mountain.

The events began with a reception in the hospitality suite. Herb Johnson volunteered to arrange for the room and generously provided all the beverages. A good time was had getting re-aquainted and making plans for the week. Many had hit the slopes Saturday and had enjoyed fresh powder and all looked forward to a great day Sunday. Sunday evening we sampled a first class buffet at the Breckenridge Hilton, which was the trip headquarters, and had the opportunity to share ski stories and make plans for the rest of the week.

The next organized event was the NASTAR race on Tuesday. The mountain staff had graciously set the course up for us as it had been officially closed for the season. Fourteen of us, some with great reluctance, challenged the gates

of the race course, and for the first time in my experience, every racer medaled. The NASTAR program is designed to allow skiers to race against the US National Team through a process of handicaps (no pun intended) so as to make all equal. There were five gold, five silver, and four bronze medals awarded.

Many of us took advantage of our proximity to the many other ski areas and visited the slopes at Keystone and Copper mountains. Wherever we went, the conditions and slopes were just great!

At the conclusion of Wednesdays skiing we all visited Bob and Bonnie Moscatelli at their beautiful home in Frisco, where Bob served margaritas and goodies, and reluctantly sold some of us copies of his wonderful book. The final activity of the trip was a sit-down dinner of filet mignon and shrimp scampi. The various medals were awarded including special Olympic style medals to the top three finishers in the race (Tilley, Trumbull and Harlem). Bill Clary awarded gag gifts for various activities observed during the week (most spectacular fall, most money spent etc.).

There is no question that the trip was a huge success, and I am personally grateful for the help of Herb, Bill Clary, and all the folks that contributed their time, enthusiasm, and support to making this one of the best trips I have been involved with. There was unanimous agreement that the trip should become an annual event, and the selection of a trip leader for next year should take place quickly. The process of selecting a site and making the decision as to when the trip should take place takes time, and some consensus is valuable. The people at Breckenridge did an excellent job

of meeting our requirements, but I am sure that equal support can be expected wherever we decide to go. Herb and I will be happy to assist in any way to support the next trip.

"And a good time was had by all"

Jim Tilley