WINTHROP - Mark Presidents Day weekend as a great time to ski in the Methow Valley in the Tour of the Methow on Saturday, Feb. 13, or the Doggie Dash on Sunday, Feb. 14.
     Registration is taken online at www.mvnordic.com.
     Cost is free to Methow Valley Nordic club members. There is a $10 registration fee.
     Tour of the Methow allows Nordic skiers to choose from courses in the valley spanning 80 kilometers, 50K, 30K, 20K, 10K, 5K and a special loop for children.
     All skiers must possess a Methow Valley Sport Touring Association trail pass.
     "This is not a race," Pat Leigh said. "No bibs, no watches, no competition, just pure fun."
     A potluck is planned for 5:30 p.m. at the Winthrop Barn, where there also will be a showing of artwork by Linda Harvey, Mary Powell, Laurie Fry, Paula Christen and Sean McCabe.
     Video of World Cup skiing will be provided.
     The Doggie Dash, where a skier and a dog serpentine through a course at the Winthrop Town Trailhead, starts with registration from 8-8:45 a.m. Cost is $12, which benefits dogs and cats in need. Racing starts at 9:30 a.m.
     Kids under 12 are admitted free at both weekend events.
     Prizes will be given at the dash for race winners and best costume for small dog (less than 40 pounds) and large dog (more than 40 pounds).