Winter expo highlights cold weather sports opportunities Published Nov. 12, 2013 By Airman 1st Class Malissa Lott 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho -- Gunfighters from Mountain Home Air Force Base participated in the Winter Expo at the Outdoor Recreation center here Nov. 7, 2013. Five vendors from throughout the local community were available to speak with Airmen about deals for various winter activities. $5,000 worth of cash prizes were also given out to selected winners. "We wanted to bring in representatives from the local resorts so that individuals here, especially skiers, can get firsthand information from the experts," said Michael Hurt, outdoor recreation director. "We want to make sure Gunfighters have access to the best deals." Representatives for different resorts from around Idaho spoke with individuals about deals for military members. Seasonal passes and lift tickets are some of the many options that individuals have. With winter closing in, the season begins soon and the base outdoor recreation office provides information on equipment and deals. "If an individual were to come in and purchase a season ski pass from one of the local resorts, that might not be the best deal for them," said Hurt. "They may find out that the 50 percent discount on the daily passes might be better than using some of the military discounts." Events like this often prove valuable to families looking to enjoy the holiday season. "Attending these kinds of functions really help me and my family," said Tech. Sgt. Toiseng Hawes, 366th Fighter Wing Equal Opportunity director. "It helps us get out of the local area and spend time together as a family and enjoy each other's company." For Airmen new to the area, the expo is an opportunity to better understand the local area. "The best thing about coming to an event like this is that you know in a few hours you can be hiking, biking, skiing, snow boarding and much more," said Josie Quillan, a local ski resort manager.