NORDIC SKIING -- Fourth of July Pass cross-country ski trails should be in shape for skiing by the end of this week, according to Geoff Harvey of the Panhandle Nordic Club.

Forest Service crews were out clearing blowdowns off the trails Monday and a groomer should be out on Wednesday and Friday, he said.

Farragut State Park grooming is likely to begin in time for this weekend.

By the way, the club will meet on Dec. 7 at the Forest Service Fernan Ranger Station for a meeting, including a film on skiing tips.

Most important, they'll have a cookie exchange. It's a fun way to exchange of your favorite cookies for another type, but some of the treats are skimmed off to give to the road plowing crews as a thank you for the time they devote to clearing the parking area for skiers at Fourth of July Pass.