President’s Message

Season 2, Number 1.

Welcome to all new and returning patrollers. It is hard to believe that we are gearing up for the 2011 – 2012 ski season.  However, the summer disappears quickly and before long we will be in full training mode.

To those looking to join the Canadian Ski Patrol System for the first time, you are embarking on quite an adventure. A Federal Minister once said that the Canadian Ski Patrol System was the best nationally based provider of first-aid and rescue services in the country next to the military. The CSPS will provide you an opportunity to develop first-aid and on-snow technical skills second to none. However, if you ask veteran patrollers why they return year after year, it is because of the camaraderie and the friendships. Once again, on behalf of all of us … Welcome.

My thanks and admiration go out to the multi-tasking VP’s and Patrol Leaders who, while addressing the year-end needs of the Zone, have been able to set the wheels in motion for next season. Budgets have been prepared by Steve Reeves and his team of financial wizards. Russ Pyper and his directors have been busy preparing our instructor corps for the upcoming season. Scott Douglas and his team of technical experts have been preparing for the on-line registration process. Peter Bakermans and his directors have been meeting with patrol leaders.   

Increased costs at the National level, mostly linked to our liability insurance, have resulted in a $ 15.00 surcharge per patroller charged to the Zones. This would have translated into membership fees of $ 150.00 + $ 15.00 = $ 165.00 for both returning patrollers and new recruits. However, thanks to the outstanding work by our fundraising chairman we have been able to discount those amounts. Returning patrollers will pay $135.00 and new recruits will pay $ 150.00 with the Zone absorbing the costs of their first aid kits (Bum Bags).

This season we will be embarking on a program entitled “Take the Lead”. It is a program being developed by some senior patrollers who have occupied positions of leadership not only within the CSPS but in their personal and professional careers as well.  It will take the form of theoretical and practical workshops along with opportunities to put into practice the learned skills. This program will provide the participants with an opportunity take away better leadership skills which will enrich all aspects of their lives.

As you begin the registration process and start thinking about the fall training season, keep in mind that the 365 Patrol is busy providing first-aid services all year. The 365 Patrol gives you the opportunity to keep your skills sharp, to help others, and to enjoy the camaraderie of the patrol year-round. Contact Denise Sebastian if you are interested in helping out.

Your Kawartha Zone Executive is committed to making the patrolling experience a rewarding one for all. That process starts with patroller input and participation. If you have any suggestions, do not hesitate to contact any member of the executive.

We look forward to doing a few runs with you.

On behalf of the Kawartha Zone Executive,

Bob Rocque, President     

zonepresident@rogers.com