More Than Just Skis. Swap Brings the Community Out

Shoppers check out skis on display at Saturday's Ski and Sport Swap, a benefit for Four Valleys Community School. (Photo by Soren Wuerth)

By Soren Wuerth

TNews Editor

The Flexible Flyer, a retro runner-sled and called the "Chevy" of steerable runners, has a sticker for $30. Tempting. 

Then there is the blue foam roller near the register. Taken. 

The light-blue Norwegian Lobben boots? A tad too tight. 

Saturday's Ski and Sport Swap had much more than skis (though there were plenty). Patrons roamed through rows of outdoor clothing, tried on boots, and picked through hats at the annual local exchange, a fundraiser for Four Valleys Community Schools.

There was a flashy rainbow-dayglow vest, kids bikes with training wheels, headlamps, Thermarests and neon pink pants. 

Another happy customer ready to get after it. (Photo by Soren Wuerth)

"Someone was selling mini Power Wheels," said Four Valleys Director Julie Johnson, referring to packages of Matchbox. "That (name) might be from the 80s but that's what I call them."

Johnson said a new digital system of registration and payment eased the process of selling and buying gear.

Johnson said all the hallmarks were in place for a successful event. "There were lots of people, lots of stuff and all the technology worked," she said.

As she roamed the Daylodge in an orange volunteer vest, Johnson said she noticed how some items, like children nordic ski boots, were essentially passing from family to family in the fashion of a true community exchange. 

Eric Steinfort finds boots that fit. (Photo by Soren Wuerth)

She said people sell things on Facebook, but "it's fun when it goes through the swap because Community Schools benefits." Proceeds, including those from vendors such as the local Powder Hound Ski Shop, help the organization "hit our mission of serving the community," Johnson said.

Alyeska Resort's Rental Shop also sold used gear at low prices—kids bindings for $25! What?—in an effort to help kids hit the mountains sooner. 

A fall storm layered nearly 20" of snow on the valley in recent days. Above the event, Alyeska Mountain beamed in wedding cake frosting beneath a piercing blue sky. Kids, arms loaded with gear, shuffled to the exit.

Besides shopping, locals took the occasion to catch up with neighbors. 

"Where do you catch up with friends? You see people at the post office and at the Ski Swap," Johnson said.

Lila Smith is geared up for another season on the slopes. (Photo by Soren Wuerth)