Topic Author's Original Post - Aug 14, 2012 - 07:29am PT
In an effort to offset the serious economic repercussions of the closure of June Mountain, many of us locals are purposing to bring visitors to the area for purposes beyond downhill skiing...June Lake has SO much more to offer.
Flanders and I are wanting to put together a week long Ice Festival....ice climbing, ice skating, skinny skiing, snow-mobiling, etc....
I am looking for input here....your ideas on what YOU would like to see during the week, and also, would like to get a feel for how many would consider coming to this event.
Most of my ideas below are not particularly insightful. I'm just bumping you up the page.
I second the motion for local brewery involvement (Double Nut Brown... mmmm).
I'm of two minds about whether or not to involve gear companies, as it would be kind of cool for it to be a low-key, climber-centric hang. However, my guess is that involving gear companies would likely be an attraction for most other folks, so it's probably better for the success of the event (and the help for the local economy) to try to get companies and reps involved.
You'll need to think about local accommodations, deals, and such for the participant.
Plan a party--aforementioned beer, local band, raffle, and so on--for one night.
Might be nice to plan a "backcountry" skin-up-and-slide-down June Mountain for those interested, to highlight the connection to the closing of June Mountain, the impact on the town, and so on. Even if June stays closed (something I don't really feel like I can influence) the closed June Mountain might remain a draw for backcountry skiers who might visit the town.
Maybe a slideshow? Personally, I'd be keen for some local hardman or hardwoman to give a show on our own amazing Sierra and all it has to offer, rather than a show on Alaska or Patagonia.
Great idea Dean. I hope the town gets it off the launch pad.
Not enough lead time to do it really right the first time but it will be good to get it off the ground. Send a representative to the OR show in January to try to get vendor participation from the outdoor industry. The Ouray Ice Festival has 30 + vendors who supply atheletes for clinics, money and demo gear for attendees.
Good idea.
I think the first thing to do is consistent ice farming. That will get climbers returning to the area.
The ice skating, skinny skiing is a good idea also.
As far as an actual festival, not sure if having vendors there will draw the crowds. Maybe get Dave Talsky involved; and a sideshow of Sierra ice climbing would be good.
I like your thinking, and hope you and Flanders can make it happen.
Right on Jim D I look forward to your guest appearance at the.....
First Annual June Lake Ice Festival.
Jim those are great ideas on how to help June Lake get an Ice fest up and running. The haqrdest part is not the idea its learning all the nuances to putting on a great event. It comes with time.
I think the first thing to do is consistent ice farming. That will get climbers returning to the area.
hell's yeah!
i've never skied june mountain (or even been on it) but they probably had a snow making set up. could one somehow use that existing plumbing for ice farming?
Lee Vining Canyon will be a part of this event...not just the ice here in June Lake.
Also, let's keep the discussion of ice farming off this page.....this scenario will be addressed by Flanders and I with the private entities which own the property where proposed farming may occur.
June Mountain will be CLOSED to any and all traffic, with 24 hour security to keep out poachers. The ski area will continue to do AC to prevent a catastrophe....but no access will be allowed. Of course....that could change.
I would also consider getting in touch with SP and get the dates for the annual Ice Gear week long fest that he heads during that time frame. Combine the two maybe.
Strength in numbers for sure combining the two events is a great idea.
What I really like is how the locals are not sitting back going woe is me. Dean you guys take the bull by the horns and do whats best for your community.
Let us know!