Fernie, BC Canada August 5, 2008 – As more families are looking to experience outdoor adventures together, Island Lake Lodge and Powder Cowboy Cat skiing are filling that demand by offering 7 Family Ski Tours this winter.

“Cat skiing at Island Lake or Powder Cowboy is the perfect adventure holiday for families who love to ski” explains Corrie Wright, long time guide at Island Lake Lodge and father of two. “With the great camaraderie and friendly interaction you get in a snowcat, paired with attentive guides and amazing powder skiing Family-Ski Tours offer for an incredible and memorable experience for the whole family.”
Tours just for families were developed by the Island Lake Resort Group in order to accommodate a growing demand by their long term guests to bring their children along and experience the legendary powder of the Canadian Rockies. . “So many of our clients are repeat customers and as they get older, so do their children. We started to get so many requests to have them bring their children that we decided to dedicate whole tours to this kind of business” said Steve Kuijt, operations manager and guide at Island Lake Lodge.
Family-Ski tours include the use of powder skis or snowboards, deluxe lodge accommodation, stretch class, gourmet food and all the powder skiing one can manage in a day! Both operations also offer spa treatments, an eclectic wine list, and outdoor hot tubs.  Family Ski Tours are run by ACMG certified guides.
Please visit our website www.islandlakeresorts.com for Girl-Ski and other specialty Cat skiing tours or call 1-888-422-8754.

Island Lake Catskiing near Fernie, B.C. is one of three operations in The Island Lake Resort Group; the others being Powder Cowboy Cat skiing near Fernie B.C., and Mica Heli skiing near Revelstoke B.C.  Island Lake Lodge Mountain and Hiking Spa , Powder Cowboy Cat skiing and Mica Heli skiing are all members of HeliCat Canada and the Canadian Avalanche Association.

For press inquires or media visits please contact Christa Moffat
christa@islandlakeresorts.com 1.888.422.8754 x 3002
Journalists on assignment are welcome to visit!

Island Lake Resort Group
602a, 2nd Ave Fernie BC Canada V0B 1MO
www.islandlakeresorts.com
Contact: Christa Moffat
Phone– 250-423-3700
Fax – 250-423-4055
Info@islandlakeresorts.com

Fernie, BC August 5 2008 – With the growing demand for women specific opportunities, the Island Lake Resort Group is offering their popular Girlski Tours at both Island Lake Lodge and Powder Cowboy Cat skiing this winter season.

Fresh dry powder, deluxe accommodation, and amazing food and wine shared amongst a few close friends have always been the draw of Cat skiing at these resorts in the Canadian Rockies. “After rave reviews from last year’s sold out Girlski Tours, we are excited to be offering three Girlski tours this winter” said Kirsten Knechtel, lead guide and operations manger at Powder Cowboy Catskiing.

Girlski tours were developed by the Island Lake Resort Group to entice more women into the sport of back country powder skiing. “90% of our clients are men, and when I go out there and ski with them it’s great, but I can’t help but wonder why more women don’t come out and do this? It is incredibly fun and really exciting, and you don’t have to be an expert” said Powder Cowboy’s lodge manager Sandra DaCosta.

These all inclusive tours include the use of women specific powder skis or snowboards, deluxe accommodation, yoga, gourmet food and all the powder skiing one can manage in a day! Both operations also offer spa treatments, an eclectic wine list, and outdoor hot tubs.   Girlski tours are run by female ACMG certified guides, and female cat drivers which helps to foster a supportive, non competitive and fun environment for the guests.

Please visit our website www.islandlakeresorts.com for family and other specialty Cat skiing tours or call 1-888-422-8754

Island Lake Catskiing near Fernie, B.C. is one of three operations in The Island Lake Resort Group; the others being  Powder Cowboy Catskiing near Fernie B.C., and Mica Heliskiing near Revelstoke B.C.  Island Lake,  Powder Cowboy Catskiing and Mica Heliskiing are all members of HeliCat Canada and the Canadian Avalanche Association.

For press inquires or media visits please contact Christa Moffat
christa@islandlakeresorts.com 1.888.422.8754 x 3002
Journalists on assignment are welcome to visit!
Powder Cowboy Catskiing
602a, 2nd Ave Fernie BC Canada V0B 1MO
www.powdercowboy.com
Phone– 250.423.3700
Fax – 250.423.4055
Info@powdercowboy.com

Fernie, BC Canada July 7, 2008 – Powder Cowboy Catskiing completed testing of new Bio Diesel for the 2008 season. Powder Cowboy Cat skiing used 3075 Li of B20, 20% biodiesel 80% diesel.  This test resulted in just over 1 tonne of GHG reduction (525 Litres is a one tonne reduction).

About Biodiesel:
Biodiesel is an environmentally friendly alternative diesel fuel.  It requires no modification to a diesel engine or fuel system, just pour it in and go. Biodiesel is currently made from vegetable oils, animal tallow and used restaurant fryer oil; however there is great promise with using algae as the raw material. “Biodiesel reduces CO2 by 78%” says Gary Tomlinson of Agri-Green Biodiesel Inc. It has a 3 to 1 energy balance, meaning for every unit of energy input, there are three units created. This is far better than gasoline, petroleum diesel, and ethanol which are all about one to one. Biodiesel has higher Cetane and Lubricity resulting in longer engine life and more complete combustion of the petroleum side of the fuel mix that Powder Cowboy used. Most users experience better fuel economy.” According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (UNFAO) 1% of the worlds agricultural land is being used for biofuels. For more information on Biodiesel please visit www.agri-greenbiodiesel.com.

About Powder Cowboy Catskiing:
Powder Cowboy Cat skiing is famous for “world class” gladed tree skiing / riding in the Canadian Rockies. With 6000 acres of steep chutes and ridge lines, big bowls, epic tree skiing powder Cowboy Catskiing has perfect terrain for intermediate to expert skiers or boarders. Powder Cowboy guests stay in cozy log cabins with a true western feel. Après skiing or riding amenities include massage service, outdoor hot tub, a sauna and an outdoor fireplace. Family tours and all female tours are available for specific tour dates. Combine the epic terrain of the Lizard range with the legendary dry powder of the BC Rockies, reserve it all for only 24 guests and the results are an unforgettable skiing or boarding experience at an affordable price. Powder Cowboy Catskiing is a member of HeliCat Canada and is also a member of the Canadian Avalanche Association.

Powder Cowboy Catskiing near Fernie, B.C. is one of three operations in The Island Lake Resort Group; the others being and Island Lake Lodge near Fernie B.C., and Mica Heliskiing near Revelstoke B.C. For more information contact Darryn Shewchuk at 1.877.837.6191 x2002.

Powder Cowboy Catskiing
Darryn Shewchuk
Office: 250-837-6191 x2002
Mobile: 250-200-0488
PO Box 602a, 2nd Ave Fernie BC Canada V0B 1MO
Phone– 250-423-3700
Fax – 250-423-4055
Info@powdercowboy.com
www.powdercowboy.com

Event: Writer’s Conference
Place: Island Lake Lodge, Fernie B.C.
Time: September 28 – Oct 3 2008

Conference Information:
The Fernie Writers Conference recently announced Mark Nykanen, four time Emmy Award winning journalist and author of three critically acclaimed thrillers, will lead a novel workshop and retreat at Island Lake Lodge (Hiking and Mountain Spa) September 28 to October 3, 2008. The retreat will be limited to 10 participants and will focus on crafting a thriller. The workshop will be a mix of discussion and re-working of material presented and critiques by the group as whole.

About Mark Nykanen

Known for his gripping psychological thrillers, HUSH, The Bone Parade, and Search Angel, you have to wonder what sort of mind develops the tense gripping page-turning plots. His books have been translated into five languages — French, German, Russian, Italian, and Dutch. The Bone Parade was a bestseller in Germany.

In an earlier life, Mark worked first as an investigative reporter for newspapers and then at 28 was hired by NBC. At the time, he was the youngest NBC correspondent. As an investigative TV journalist for NBC, he received four Emmy Awards. Searching for something more, in 1987 he left broadcasting. Since that time his work has centered on peace and environmental activism. Four and a half years ago Mark moved to Nelson BC where he lives with his wife and daughter.

Mark brings a fine and practiced eye to the Retreat and the ability to critically cut to the core of an issue. His plotting sense is impeccable and the weaving of character traits to create plot depth stands as a hallmark of his work.

The Retreat is all-inclusive—Dinner Sunday September evening to the closing lunch on Friday afternoon, lodging and all workshop sessions.
$1725.00. based on single occupancy.
Double occupancy $2175.00. Applicable to participants who wish to bring a guest to share the week at the Lodge.
GST and a 15% gratuity on dining is not included.

Christa Moffat
Island Lake Resort Group
(250) 423 3700 ext 3002
christa@islandlakeresorts.com
www.islandlakeresorts.com

Event:    4th Annual Women’s Wellness Retreat
Place:    Island Lake Lodge, Fernie B.C.
Time:     September 25-28, 2008

Balance, rejuvenation, and relaxation in nature have always been a part of the unique experience at Island Lake Lodge situated in an “Old Growth” forest in southeastern British Columbia, making it an ideal location for a women’s wellness retreat.

This unique Hiking and Mountain Spa getaway includes 3 nights’ deluxe lodge accommodation, gourmet meals, all workshops, lectures and activities. Headlining the event this year is Brenda Eastwood, RNCP and Women’s Health Specialist with more than 25 years of experience working with thousands of women through private practice, seminars, workshops, audio programs, radio, TV and a unique on-line support system. Brenda is a knowledgeable, gifted and high-energy speaker who has her audiences shaking with laughter as she discusses subjects that aren’t normally discussed in public … and in a fun yet totally professional manner.

Other contributors include local women who are passionate about the area and who apply their knowledge to honoring women’s health while offering interactive workshops, yoga, guided interpretive walks and adventure hikes.

“Having local women as contributors have always been a big part of the event” explains Sandra DaCosta, events coordinator at Island Lake Lodge “Our guests really appreciate being surrounded by women who live and work in the mountains, sharing their local knowledge while relating it to women’s health.

Secluded in the peaks of the Canadian Rockies, Island Lake Lodge sits above a stunning mountain lake on 7,000 acres of pristine wilderness, 20 minutes from Fernie, B.C. It is easily reached in a 2.5-hour drive from the airport in Kalispell, Montana, or a leisurely three-hour drive from the Calgary International Airport in Alberta.  Island Lake offers fantastic hiking through an 800 year-old “Old Growth” forest and to the summits of surrounding mountains. Relax in the 3,000 square foot full service spa offering a diverse array of treatments, esthetics and body care treatments.  Experience acclaimed food showcasing local, organic and seasonal ingredients, while enjoying a bottle of wine from the 3000 bottle wine library.

The Women’s Wellness package starts at $997.00 per person and space is limited to 30.
Please visit our website (www.islandlodge.com) for two and three-day summer packages, anniversary getaways, and couples retreats, or call 1-888-422-8754.

For press inquires or media visits please contact Christa Moffat.
Journalists on assignment are welcome to visit!

Christa Moffat
Island Lake Resort Group
(250) 423 3700 ext 3002
christa@islandlakeresorts.com
www.islandlakelodge.com

Back by popular demand, Island Lake Lodge organizes specially designed day hikes throughout the summer.

Anyone who has ever visited or who lives in Fernie will agree that it is a beautiful valley framed by stunning peaks. From the iconic Three Sisters, to the folded layers of geological history of Mt Hosmer, to the lush heavily vegetated slopes of Mt. Fernie, there are many exciting places to discover and explore.

Mountain Pursuits and Island Lake Lodge are pleased to present specially designed day hikes for this summer’s Hiking Series. Back by popular demand – and in its 6th summer – the Hiking Series runs a number of group hikes throughout the summer. These are fully guided educational hikes offering everything the Elk Valley has to offer from vibrant alpine wildflowers to incredible mountain views.

Every season Mountain Pursuits puts on a Hiking Series to encourage locals and those visiting to become a little more intimate with our mountain environment. They do this by offering group hikes with local guides and experts taking you to neighboring peaks and points of interest.

Jennifer Coulter, guide and hiking program manager of Mountain Pursuits and Island Lake Lodge explains “This series has something for every one. From summiting Fernie’s rugged peaks, to a casual hike exploring the flora and fauna of the alpine environment, there is an adventure for all ability levels. Joining a guided hiking series hike is a great way to get off the beaten path and let our guides lead you to places you may not have visited on your own. ”

For more information about Hiking and Mountain Spa in Fernie, check out the Mountain Pursuits and Island Lake Lodge websites:
Mountainpursuits.com
Islandlakeresorts.com

Christa Moffat
Island Lake Resort Group
(250) 423 3700 ext 3002
christa@islandlakeresorts.com
www.islandlakelodge.com

Island Lake Lodge Hiking and Mountain Spa welcomes the announcement of Bill Bennett as BC’s new Minister of Tourism. “Many people think of Bill Bennett as coming from a mining background but he grew up working in the tourism industry with over 20 years of experience.” says the GM of Island Lake Lodge Steve Kuijt. Kuijt went on to say “the importance of tourism in a region with a long history of resource extraction is paramount. In order to thrive and continue to be sustainable our communities need to have a good balance of both to be strong in the long run.”

A longtime leader in East Kootenay eco-tourism, Island Lake Lodge is committed to working with local and provincial governments to preserve the environment and efforts to minimize energy use in daily operations. A cornerstone of the operating philosophy, Island Lake Lodge received a 4-Key rating in the Hotel Association of Canada’s Green Key Program, and recently received the Energy and Environment Award of Excellence, also from the HAC.  Key among these initiatives is the installation and operation of 2 micro-hydro stations to generate 100% of the Lodge’s electrical needs. “We are very proud of our efforts in creating a sustainable and eco-friendly operation” says Kyle Hamilton, Building Services Manager, who was integral in reviewing the company’s environmental practices.  Island Lake Lodge is looking forward to working with the new Minister on furthering all types of tourism in the area.

For additional information on Island Lake Lodge and its environmental initiatives contact Steve Kuijt or visit www.islandlakeresorts.com

About Island Lake Lodge – The lodge sits above a stunning mountain lake on 7000 acres of pristine wilderness.  In the winter it operates as a catskiing company, servicing 36 guests in three snow cats.  In the summer it is a luxurious backcountry lodge, offering hiking, spa, fine dining and deluxe lodging.  Located 20 minutes from Fernie B.C. it is an easy 2.5-hour drive from the airport in Kalispell, Montana a 3 hour drive from Calgary International Airport in Alberta, or a 1 hour drive from the Canadian Rockies International Airport in Cranbrook British Columbia.

Revelstoke, BC Canada June 18, 2008 – Mica Heliskiing completed a full season (December 2007 to April 2008) using the new ABS Freeride Airbag and the new Barryvox ‘Pulse’ Avalanche Transceiver.

At Mica Heli skiing, a safe and enjoyable experience is our No. 1 priority. Our professionally trained and certified guides make every effort to reduce the risks associated with back country skiing. The new ABS Airbags and Barryvox Digital Transceivers are state of the art avalanche safety equipment and have added another level of safety at Mica Heliskiing.

ABS Packs: Each of our guests is now provided with an ABS backpack to wear during the ski day. The ABS Freeride is a lightweight dual balloon pack with room inside for an avalanche probe and shovel. In the event of an avalanche, the ABS pack helps a person stay on the surface of a moving avalanche, thereby dramatically decreasing the likelihood of becoming buried.

Barryvox ‘Pulse’ Avalanche Transceivers: Mica Heliskiing upgraded to a fleet of the new Barryvox ‘Pulse’ Avalanche Transceivers for our guests to use while skiing last season. The Barryvox ‘Pulse’ is at the leading edge of avalanche transceiver technology. Our guests were extremely pleased with these new units, which are without question, one of the fastest and easiest transceivers on the market to use!

Mica Helskiing Safety Program: Mica Heliskiing minimizes the risks associated with backcountry skiing in several different ways. On the first morning of your stay, each guest is required to take part in a formal Helicopter Safety Briefing and a Backcountry Safety School. These sessions include the use of standard avalanche safety equipment, including ABS Packs and avalanche transceivers. All groups are lead by professionally trained and certified guides. Each of our guides meets or exceeds the requirements of ‘a guide’ as set by the Helicat Canada guidelines and have been trained and certified by the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides and/or are members of the International Federation of Mountain Guides. Throughout the day your guide will work to choose terrain deemed appropriate for the current mountain conditions and the ability level of your group.

Mica Heli is a member of HeliCat Canada. HeliCat sets strict safety standards for operating a Helicopter and/or SnowCat Skiing area and as part of our membership we are required to have our safety systems and procedures reviewed on a regular basis. Mica Heliskiing is also a member of the Canadian Avalanche Association and subscribes to the Canadian Avalanche Association’s INFOEX. The ‘INFOEX’ is a daily information exchange between professional avalanche industry stakeholders and allows us to compare our mountain conditions and observations with those of our neighbors.

If you would like to learn more about our safety procedures, please do not hesitate to contact us and we’ll be happy to provide you with further detail.

Mica Heli Skiing near Revelstoke, B.C. is one of three operations in The Island Lake Resort Group; the others being Powder Cowboy Catskiing and Island Lake Lodge near Fernie B.C., For more information contact Darryn Shewchuk at  1.877.837.6191 x200

About The Island Lake Cookbook
Published by Whitecap Books
Written by Keith Liggett
Photography by Henry Georgi
To be released Spring 2009

Book Information:
Quite literally from around the world powder skiing aficionados flock to Island Lake Lodge.  Over thirty feet of snow fall each winter and the unbroken snowfields in the 7000 wilderness acres surrounding the Lodge insure unparalleled skiing.

While the skiing initially attracts the guest, the experience of Island Lake Lodge Mountain and Hiking spa brings them back year after year.  Completely off the grid, accessible only by snow cat during the winter, the Lodge experience establishes a standard distinct from any other.  As with all active pursuits, gathering for a meal at the end of the day fosters community and the opportunity to trade tales.  At Island Lake Lodge the evening becomes far more. With a long standing reputation of hiring young innovative chefs providing them with the mandate to serve interesting and hearty meals to compliment the extensive wine cellar, dining for the thirty some guests becomes as important as the skiing.

Each winter the chefs of Island Lake Lodge create over one hundred individual menus for the just over thirty skiing guests.  Pulling from the finest in local and regional ingredients, the meals served are un-equaled in the industry.

The chefs foster relationships with suppliers, from Cinecott Farms to Hill’s specialty meat producers, to find, to prepare and to serve a meal as startling unique as the ski terrain surrounding the Lodge.

The chefs profiled–past and present–each created a flair in the Lodge cuisine and a brought passion for their craft.  Those that have moved on left a high mark for the following chefs to touch and to surpass.

The Island Lake Cookbook (Whitecap Books, Spring 2009) will celebrate this innovative tradition with a look back at the history of the Lodge, the philosophy of cooking, the thought going into each supplier relationship and the often almost whimsical approach to fine food by the chefs of the Lodge.  Whitecap is a leading Canadian publisher of cookbooks receiving four international awards at the recent London Book Fair.