Tampa Bay Ski Club

Meet the Trip Leaders!

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Tampa Bay Ski Club Trip Leaders

Welcome to the Trip Leaders Section of our Web Site! These hard working, fun loving people will be very important to you. If you have never been on one of our trips, this is what you can expect from your trip leader...

Before you go they are hard at work planning activities and social events for you to enjoy on the trip. Each has been to the resort before so you are getting first hand information. The leaders are available to you as a source for information about the resort, the lodging, the transportation and the special activities planned.

On the way to the resort, they assist with boarding, check in, bus transportation and general information about the trip schedule or events. At the resort they assist with check in, lift ticket distribution and rental equipment. Then the fun begins! There will be Welcome Receptions, Happy Hours, picnics, parties, even a full dinner on most trips! Each leader is different; each has their own knack for entertaining. But they are always looking out for their travelers and making sure they all have a good time. And then on the few occasions when “Murphy’s Law” is in effect, they are there to help.

A couple of things they are not are:  baby sitters, nursemaids, bookkeepers, baggage handlers, dishwashers or ski instructors. All travelers are urged to work together to make the trip more fun for everyone.  We are pleased to have such a dedicated, experienced group of leaders, look them over and join us for a great ski trip!



 
Anita Hoy

Hello, I am Anita Hoy a massage therapist and gymnastics instructor. I am a native of Florida and started skiing as a child in the Rocky Mountains. We went every year traveling to destinations such as Park City, Keystone, Steamboat, Winter Park, Copper, and my favorite Breckinridge. As I grew into my teenage years I decided to transfer over to snowboarding. I spent the first week beating myself up falling down the mountain. I preserved and now I love snowboarding more than ever!

I look forward to a great trip at my favorite resort Breckinridge. I am an energetic person and love to go out early on the mountain and enjoy the whole day. I am great with children as a gymnastics coach and often find myself entertaining the kids on the trip.

Have a wonderful time on all your adventures and I hope to see you on our next trip!

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Anita Hoy

Trip Leader:
 
Ann Worthington

I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio and began skiing on some of the smaller hills in that area starting at 14 years old.  I graduated to the slopes of upstate New York and really got the ski bug in my early 20s.  When I moved to Boston, after graduating college, I skied quite a bit in New Hampshire and Vermont.  I did not know about the slopes out West.  I was a happy camper.

When I moved to Florida after the blizzard of ’78 in Boston, I worked in the finance and accounting area.  I was in public accounting and then was CFO of banks and insurance companies.  When I first went on vacation skiing out West in the early 80s, I never had the desire to ski in the East again.  The conditions and terrain in the West are terrific!  I have skied in Europe, as well and find the skiing to be fun and different!

I love Big Sky, Keystone, Park City and all of the places in between.  Actually, it is hard to think of a ski area in Utah, Montana or Colorado that I do not like.  Canada also offers a large variety of exciting destinations.  I usually team up with Ruby Johnson and I can tell you that we will ensure that everyone has a great time!  I look forward to another wonderful ski season!!

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Ann Worthington

Trip Leader:
 
Bonnie Ormerod - Niwot, CO

I’m a Maryland/DC native and learned to ski in the northeast visiting Smuggler’s, Stowe, Killington, Sugarbush (“Ice Mountains”). I thought it was natural to ski in frigid temperatures and on ice and to me it was the best in the world. Life hands you opportunities, and I moved to FL years ago and missed this passion of being in the snow and mountains.

Another door of opportunity knocked when I read the Tampa Bay Ski Club ad in the paper several years ago announcing their Kick-Off Party. I went out to the Rockies that year and the rest is history. I have met wonderful people and created a lot of new friendships in this ski club. Skiing is a passion of mine and I am eager to share my energy and enthusiasm with you. I came to love Colorado so much that I moved out here a few years ago. Some of you may enjoy all the group activities while others may want to kick back and just enjoy quite time relaxing or pampering yourself in the spa. This is your trip and your vacation, and I hope to make it special for all of you. I’m looking forward to being your host providing you with fantastic memories long after we return home.

Over the years I have skied various mountains including Heavenly, Squaw, Kirkwood, Sierra, Park City, Deer Valley, Cannons, Snowbasin, Brian Head, Key Stone, Steamboat, Breckenridge, Winter Park, Snowmass, Copper and Vail.

"Dance for Snow"

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Bonnie Ormerod

Trip Leader:
 
Chris Schmidt - Sarasota, FL

I am a general contractor in Sarasota, Florida but am originally from Western, NY where I was a part time ski instructor. Growing up, my family was always on the go which is where I found my love for outdoor adventures. I have traveled the country on countless adventures including skiing, river rafting, mountain climbing, paddle boarding, rollerblading, mountain biking & backpacking just to name a few.

Although I had been on countless ski trips, it was with the Tampa Bay Ski Club where I took my epic ski vacation. After experiencing a week long trip to a top resort with a group led by a knowledgeable trip leader (Helen) I was inspired to share in my knowledge and excitement for skiing as a trip leader. I like being around others and enjoying all aspects of the adventure whether it be the travel, discovery or letting go of the troubles of daily life.

Join me for an adventure, "If you don't do it this year, you will be one year older when you do." - Warren Miller

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Chris Schmidt

Trip Leader:
 
Cindy Dickerson

Hello Skiers and Boarders:

A little about me… I am sales manager for multiple Florida offices of Carrier Air Conditioning, a great company where I have worked for 29 years. I have been skiing and boarding for about 15 years, and have led club trips every year for at least 12 years. In addition to the multiple trips I have led in the Western US, in the past two years I have led Club Med trips to Chamonix, France and St. Moritz, Switzerland. About ten years ago, I tried boarding and fell in love with it so haven’t strapped the skis on since then but I definitely have the perspective of both sides, having done both. You will find me either on the snow or having a cold one when the lifts close every day.

I truly like people and that’s why I lead trips. I have led several trips over the past few years and I know how to have fun! My goal is for everyone on our trips to have a good time and do what they want to do on their vacation, even if it’s take the day off and sit by the fire getting in some quiet reading. I believe that Big Sky and Val Thorens, France have something to offer for the biggest enthusiast down to the family or friend who just wants to get away and take it easy for a little while.

Please consider joining us on one of my trips – we are going to hit the mountain hard and cool our heels with some relaxing R and R in the evenings!!

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Cindy Dickerson

Trip Leader:
 
Colin Etheridge

I grew up in Lakeland, FL and currently work for Publix Super Markets in Digital Marketing. While I have many hobbies and interests spanning music, cars, woodworking, art, and reefkeeping, snow skiing has easily become one of my favorites.

My first ski trips were add-ons to family vacations in the Smokey Mountains. In my late teens to early 20s, my grandad, Bill Thomas, joined the club. I enjoyed seeing his photos and hearing stories about his adventures. I began asking questions and was blessed to join the club on my first trip to Vail. I was hooked! That Christmas - a few weeks after we got back - I bought my own gear for the following Breckenridge trip with Helen.

Last year, I joined my Grandad on a trip to Jackson Hole - the first trip I remember him talking about. There, I learned to ski jumps with my new friends. It's one of my favorite memories!

I'm looking forward to many more travels, friendships, and adventures. Hope you'll join me soon!

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Colin Etheridge

Trip Leader:
 
Helen Newcombe

Helen grew up in Colorado and started skiing at 12 years old. As a trip leader since 1998, she has lead one to three ski trips per year to many ski areas in the Rockies and Europe. Helen has met some great people on her many ski trips and has built up a large list of satisfied travelers. As a result of this experience, her trips usually fill up quickly. Helen looks forward every year to skiing her favorite mountains and meeting new friends. Helen has owned a dance studio in Zephyrhills for 33 years.  She loves children and enjoys having them on her trips. Her other hobbies and interests include golfing, biking, kayaking and traveling.

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Helen Newcombe

Trip Leader:
 
Lance Penn - Lakeland, FL

Hello everyone, my name is Lance Penn and I will be one of your Trip Leaders going to Taos, New Mexico in January 2025. A little bit about me, I was born and raised in Lakeland, Florida and still live there. I’m a retired Navy Submarine Sailor of 22 years and currently work part time as a Sales Associate for Cleveland Heights Golf Course.

I love any and all outdoor activities, golf, hunting, fishing, boating and then after years of my friends begging me to go snow skiing. So, I went and fell in love with it about 17 years ago (still not any good at it). After a few trips, I wanted to be involved in leading these trips, so I volunteered and the rest is history. I have led ski trips to Banff & Whistler, Canada, Telluride & Steamboat Springs, Colorado and Bend, Oregon to mention a few. I have collected fond memories of meeting new friends and going to new places.

I love to travel and help people in having a wonderful experience and great time on one of my trips; I guess that’s why I try to do them.

Please consider joining me on this trip and enjoy a trip of a lifetime in wonderful Taos, New Mexico.

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Lance Penn

Trip Leader:
 
Meloni Yaeger

Hello. I was raised in a small mid-west town by parents involved with the National Ski Patrol. Our family of six, had the opportunity to travel throughout the Northeast on many ski adventures. My parents would volunteer to patrol and we were “set free to explore.” I think it opened a “can of worms”, because I’m still exploring! After college, I taught in the Kent City Schools and had the opportunity to run the ski club & introduce students to this great sport. In 1982 we relocated to Central Florida and while raising our children sporadically experienced the thrill of skiing. As an empty nester, I was introduced to the Florida Ski Clubs and felt like I discovered nirvana! I’ve so enjoyed meeting new people with similar passions, and have skied with them throughout the Rockies and in Europe. I am grateful for this new leadership opportunity, and look forward to memories that we’ll make together.

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Meloni Yaeger

Trip Leader:
 
Mike Waller - Lakeland, FL

I grew up in a military family, moving every few years and yet I still love to travel.! I am mostly retired and my wife and I split time in the summer between our homes in Lakeland , Fl (hot) and Glenville, NC (cool).My wife and I have 3 adult children and 7 grandchildren that keep us busy.I learned to ski when I was 10 in Garmisch, Germany. After a 25 year break from skiing my family did a Christmas family reunion trip to Vail, Co. and I have been hooked ever since. It has become my passion. I love being outdoors and feeling the sun and wind and snow on my face. I have led ski trips all over north America for 16 years and have visited most of the Rocky Mountain Resorts. I love to share my enthusiasm for skiing with everyone.

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Mike Waller

Trip Leader:
 
Ruby Johnson

My ski passion began with my first trip with the ski club in 1979 to Big Sky, Montana. Being in the travel business afforded me the opportunity to lead trips and ski most of the western resorts, and some of Europe.

Wonderful friendships have formed over the many years I have been leading ski trips. Each season I look forward to making new friends and seeing old ones.

After surviving Stage 3 breast cancer, I retired as a travel professional and an Aetna wife and devoted my energies to leisure activities as well as charity work. I have served as chairperson for the Memorial Day Charity Tennis Tournament held at East Lake Woodlands Country Club in Oldsmar, Florida for the past 20 years having raised over $850,000 for Morton Plant Mease Foundation, The Arthritis Foundation, Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA), and our current benefactor, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay.

Having been a member of East Lake Woodlands Country Club for 25 years, I have served four terms on the Tennis Committee, four times as Chairperson and one term on the ELW Board of Governors.

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Ruby Johnson

Trip Leaders:
 
Sandra Gebhardt

I am an Ice Skating Instructor at RDV Sportsplex in Maitland, Florida. I grew up in Westport, Connecticut and Huntington Beach, California, and there is not a sport that I don’t play or didn’t play as a child. I competed in figure skating, yet my passion has always been snow skiing. My late husband and I have worked and owned a Travel and Hospitality business, and with our two children we have skied all over the US. Now as a widow and empty nester, I have found Florida ski clubs, especially Tampa’s Ski club as a haven to further my travel and ski passion. With my travel background I get the privilege to share my passion and expertise with all who choose to join my trips.

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Sandra Gebhardt

Trip Leader:
 
Sandra Hamilton

Sandy is super excited to be joining Helen Newcombe as her trip assistant. Having lived in the mid-west most of her life, she moved to Tampa in 2020 after retiring as an attorney for a non-profit law firm. She has been skiing on and off for over 30 years and enjoys the beautiful winter scenes. She also enjoys tennis, kayaking, and biking. Traveling and meeting new people are also among her favorite things. In 2012-2014, Sandy volunteered with the Peace Corps living in Botswana, Africa and traveled to five other African countries.

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Sandy Hamilton

Assistant Trip Leader:
 
Steve & Debbie Hunter

Meet your tour directors for the exhilarating Banff ski trip! We are thrilled to welcome you to this breathtaking adventure in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. We are Steve and, Debbie Hunter. We reside in St Petersburg, FL. We have been in the travel industry for over 40 years.

Steve and Debbie have jointly escorted over 40 groups from the Caribbean, to SE Asia and throughout Europe .
Debbie has skied most resorts out west, the northeast and a handful in Europe.

Steve has skied Northeast mountains as well as quite a few resorts out west. He was a ski instructor at Copper Mtn for Club Med

With a passion for the great outdoors, Debbie's adventures have taken her across the globe, from hiking across England to conquering the legendary Annapurna Trail in Nepal.

Meanwhile, Steve is an avid cyclist with an insatiable thirst for adventure. Together, the Hunter duo brings a wealth of travel knowledge, experience, and a shared commitment to ensuring you have an unforgettable time both on and off the slopes.

From navigating the powdery trails of Banff's world-renowned ski resorts to exploring the charming town's vibrant culture and cuisine, Steve and Debbie are dedicated to crafting an experience that exceeds your expectations. Whether you're a seasoned skier or a first-time snow bunny, we're here to cater to your every need, ensuring you leave with memories that will last a lifetime.

So, buckle up and get ready for an adventure-packed journey through the stunning winter wonderland of Banff. With Steve and Debbie leading the way, you're in for an experience that's nothing short of extraordinary. Let's hit the slopes and make some unforgettable memories together!

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Steve & Debbie Hunter
Steve & Debbie Hunter

Trip Leaders:
 
Taylor Schmitz

Hey ya'll I’m Taylor (and yes, I am currently residing in Music City USA, Nashville, TN!!! After taking 25 years off from skiing (growing up skiing in Colorado) I got back into hitting the slopes three years ago. I’ll ski anything and everything so keep me in mind if you’re lookin for someone to hit the slopes with. I have been on several TBSC trips, and now have had the great opportunity to help lead and co-lead several trips as well. I’m excited to shred some snow with ya’ll this year and if there is anything I can do to help, please feel free to give me a shout, or hit me up on email!! 615 473-8920

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Taylor Schmidt

Trip Leader:
 
Tracy Kirkpatrick - Lakeland, FL

Hello everyone, I have lived in Lakeland since birth and I’ve worked for the City of Lakeland for over 35 years. I love the great outdoors and sports, so when a lifelong friend invited me on my first ski trip in 2000, I jumped at the chance since I was a true Floridian and had not experienced snow. Since that first trip to Banff Canada, I have managed to average 2 trips a year to North America’s Winter Wonderlands. Although I joined winter sports late in life, I’ve been skiing for over 20 years and have lead and assisted on many trips both private and for the club. I truly enjoy the people I’ve met and helped on these trips, and will do whatever I can to ensure you have a great time on your trip no matter what you want to do. I’ve skied in the East, but I love being in the Western mountains of the US and Canada and have skied most all the big names

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Trip Leader:
 
Zack Dickerson

Hello Everyone! Some of you that have been with the club for a while may remember me. I have been involved with the Tampa Bay Ski Club since I was very young and even worked for the Club alongside Chris Elam for a couple years. I'm very excited for the opportunity to lead another successful trip!

I grew up in Clearwater, but in 2016 I decided it was time to move on from Florida and I moved to Chattanooga, TN. It’s a wonderful little city, and I was fortunate enough to find and work my way up through a small, local restaurant and become their General Manager. The job keeps me very busy but has never taken me away from my passion of skiing. I first snapped into skis at 8 years old and slowly but surely have become an expert skier over the years.

I have been on/led numerous trips in the past to more locations than I can count. Breckenridge was always one of my favorites, and I am thrilled to be a part of it. Leading trips has always been a labor of love for me as I am very much a caretaker that always ends up in leadership roles. My number one focus is to ensure everyone has a great time and gets the absolute most out of their vacation. Look forward to traveling with y’all!

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Zack Dickerson

Trip Leader:
 

The Ski Department of Travelworld
Donald Oneal Jr
President
| Marco Vaccino
Ski Department Manager
| Stacy Doss
Accounting

Tampa Bay Ski Club also does customized ski vacations for individuals, families and small groups. Custom trips for large groups, clubs, civic and business organizations are a specialty. Trip escorts and on-site coordinators are also available. Great trips at great prices!

The Tampa Bay Ski Club is operated by Travelworld, a full service travel agency, specializing in cruises, vacations and corporate travel.

(813) 710-4SKI (4754)