Editor: The Times:
“Love where you live.” On Friday, Feb. 14, three classes of students from Raft River School and a busload of high school students enjoyed a day of skiing at the local ski hill.
I was in charge of the kindergarten and Grade 1 group. After two weeks of organization I was feeling the responsibility of making sure each young child had a rewarding introduction to what for some was their first ever skiing experience.
Money for ski equipment rentals, lift tickets and lunches was collected. Volunteers came to the school and each child was measured and weighed. Parents traced their child’s foot to ensure ski boots fitted properly. Notices to parents soliciting help for the day and reminders about appropriate clothing were sent out.
On ski race day the efficient school bus coordinated driving some classes to the skating rink and others to the ski hill. Some parents arranged for time off from work to come and enjoy the day with their child. Grandparents arrived. Some ski instructors came directly from work and from as far away as Blue River to give the children an hour of fine ski lessons. Others operated the lifts and the concession.
When the children arrived they were given a pep talk about courtesy and safety before they went downstairs to collect their rental equipment. The rentals were all laid out in class sets and labeled with the children’s names. The equipment looked new and well cared for. Parents helped the little ones get their boots on and off they went to try out their ski legs.
With such a strong contingent of volunteers the little ones were on the hill in no time. Those who had never skied were helped by big buddies from Grade 6. When it came time for their lesson every child could stand up and many had learned to snow plow and ride the rope tow on the bunny hill. Two were skiing with their parents on the big hill.
By lunch time, hungry athletes gobbled up the pre-ordered grilled cheese sandwiches efficiently cooked by Chef Merlin and his helpers.
At the end of the school day, tired and smiling children feeling like they were pros, wearily boarded the bus for home.
Because of the suburb organization of the raft of volunteers, parents and others, this ski day created a happy and memorable experience for the children in this community. I say a huge Thank You to all who participated in the organization to make this skiing event such a success. “Love where you live?” You bet!
Sandra Holmes
Clearwater, B.C.
