By Amy Quesenberry
Special to the Turnagain Times

Mountain MetalMayhem
Thursday March 12, Rail Jam Competition will be held in the Sitzmark Rail Park at 5 p.m. Open to all ages. $20 entry fee. Register online or at the Ticket Office. After the rail jam, metal bands Dopiate, Spitshine, and Necrotic Opus play inside the Sitz. Dress “metal” and win prizes in the costume contest. $10 cover charge. All proceeds from this event benefit the Girdwood Skate Park.

Mountain Learning Center
Freestyle Friday Nights introduction to intermediate and advanced free-style technique is being offered through the Mountain Learning Center. Lessons are from 6-8pm March 6 & 12 in the terrain park. Cost is $30/night and helmets are required. There’s still time to sign up for Spring Break Camps. A camp is offered every day of spring break for all ages and abilities. Call 754-2280 for more information.

2009 U.S. Alpine Championships begins March 23
The Nationals return to the slopes of Alyeska March 23-31 and will feature the country’s best athletes competing for a spot on the US Ski Team. The Opening Ceremonies will be held Friday evening, March 27 outside the Daylodge, with live music, native dancers and an athlete parade. This event should be fun for the whole family and give you the opportunity to meet the US Ski Team and get an autograph or two. An event like Nationals can only happen with community support and Volunteers play a crucial role in all aspects of the races. You can sign up to assist by emailing signmeup@alyeskaresort.com or by calling 754-2293. The mountain remains open to the public during race week, boasting some of the best skiing of the season, PLUS you get to be a part of US alpine history and watch the world’s best athletes compete in Alaska!

Military Appreciation Day
On Monday, March 23rd Alyeska Resort salutes the members of our nation’s Armed Forces and their families with Military Appreciation Day! Present a valid Military ID and receive a FREE lift ticket or rental and a special BBQ plate at the Sitzmark or Glacier Express. Discounts on guest rooms and ski lessons are also available.