Sure, from time to time I, like any body in any work place, disagree with management on a certain policy or procedure. I also know that KB skiers and riders are fired up to green light this season and hit the slopes. I share in that enthusiasm for sure and look forward to day number 1 as much as anyone. So when I returned to my desk after a few days out of town I was excited at the possibility of the bullwheel turning late this week. I do not think that will be the case, but I do not disagree with management and here is why...

 It has been the policy of Mt. Operations to open with a snow surface that offers both quality and sustainability. We have seen marginal snow making temperatures over the last 4 days or so and have made a fair amount of snow ,but grooming out what we have now into the warm ground would result in moisture laden snowpack with the best case scenario being a base layer of boiler plate when the colder air does arrive. That same boiler plate and the threat of battling that type of base all season is why strict guidelines must be adhered to regarding temperature and humidity as it concerns firing the snow guns. The Ops. crew feels it is best to take full advantage of the colder weather moving in, mix in man made with what we hope is substantial natural snow and groom it out layer by layer until the quality surface you expect from KB can be sustained even if we see a short warm spell.

Management has chosen to be patient and throw everything they have into the next 7 days or so, doing whatever they can to open as soon as possible with a product they can be proud of and you can enjoy. I can't fault that.

If I were a betting man I would mark next Wednesday or Thursday for opening. Of course heavy lake snow and other variables could move my guess forward or backward a few days. Keep your fingers crossed and check back often for updates.

The moment I hear a definitive announcement concerning opening I will report the details here.

May your days be merry and bright...

-ACM