Thursday, February 16, 2012
I rode chair 100 on our Bravo lift this morning. 100 is a nice number when you get back a test in school. If it refers to inches of cumulative snowfall in mid-February, 100 is more like a grade of C. However, 100 inches of snow is better than nothing even if it is well below our average for this time of year.
With that eight-plus feet of natural snow, great snowmaking, and excellent grooming we remain 100% open (that is another good 100). As I mentioned previously, our groomers have been burning a lot of extra biodiesel this week as they aggressively rip into the slopes to create some excellent smooth, soft conditions.
Last night, I received the following email from a couple who skis frequently at Sugarbush and knows the mountain well.
"Hi Win. Before the next weather event arrives, I just have to tell you that your guys have done an amazing job grooming the past two days. Skiing yesterday and today was outstanding -- even Downspout. Let's hope the rain stays in the sky and cold temps will prevail for some snow. See you on the mountain."
Let me explain what aggressive grooming means. Here is how our snow manager, Mike Wing, explains it:
Our Elite Fleet of 7 Pisten Bully groomers plus our Pisten Bully 600 on demo have done a fabulous job. With a few inches of new snow predicted tonight and maybe some more on Saturday night, we are set up well for a great weekend.
In addition to outdoor fun on the slopes, we have a full calendar of really exciting events over the holiday week for all members of the family.
Given the comfortable temperatures, our torchlight parade and fireworks on Saturday evening should be something to remember. Torchlight will begin sharply at 7PM and fireworks will follow when the skiers reach the bottom of Spring Fling. 
Another special event I want to highlight will occur Friday evening, February 24, at 6:00 in The Schoolhouse. My beautiful and talented wife, Lili, will be hosting "Canvas and Cocktails" and I assure you it will be a hoot. Lili will help you explore your artistic side, painting a picture while enjoying cocktails or other refreshments. Artists of all abilities and people with no abilities will enjoy this session. You can check-out Lili's work at liliruane.com. 
We are looking forward to a fun and entertaining week here at Sugarbush. Hope to see you soon.
Win
So what would you expect a former Executive Vice President of Merrill Lynch to do when he retires? Lay low in the islands? Nope. He moves north and works seven days a week right here at Sugarbush. Check out what he's been thinking.
