Jeff Johnson, chair of the Canadian Cancer Society's newest Kimberley event, Slopes for Hope, was at City Council this week seeking support.

The event, planned for Saturday, February 12, 2011, asks skiers to ski the vertical height of Mount Everest in one day to raise funds for the Cancer Society. That amounts to about 16 runs down the Main at the Kimberley Alpine Resort. However, that can be split between four team members.

There will also be winter bocce and other activities for children and families at the Resort base. It is hoped the event will take on a winter festival feel and grow every year.

Kimberley City Council gave the event their endorsement, with a number of Councillors promising to get teams together.

"I think it's a worthwhile project now that we don't the Relay here anymore. This is something we can do to support the Cancer Society," said Coun. Brent Bush.

Coun. Paddy Weston said she thought it was an excellent idea but wondered about access to the lifts as it was Alberta Family Day weekend, traditionally a very busy day on the mountain.

Johnson assured her that lift lines would not be a problem as RCR had assured them that the Slopes event could use the ski school lift line, which will allow faster access.

"I think using Family Day is a good idea," said Coun. Albert Hoglund. "It will get Albertans involved. It may take a year or two to catch on, but if you keep it the same date it will catch on."

The Cancer Society not only sees Slopes for Hope becoming a yearly event in Kimberley, but hopes other ski hills may pick up on the idea as well.