Meet the Trip Leaders!
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!
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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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 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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Assistant Trip Leader:
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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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Trip Leaders:
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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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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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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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The Ski Department of Travelworld |
Donald Oneal Jr
President |
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Marco Vaccino
Ski Department Manager |
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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)
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